Every voice matters. Every vote must be counted.

Editor's note: Since the publication of this story, the election has been called for Joe Biden. Read Wilderness Society President Jamie Williams' message here:

Dear Wilderness supporters,

Today there is still a great deal of uncertainty over what kind of administration we will have for the next four years.

While we’d all love a resolution as soon as possible, the pandemic has made this an unusual election season in which a little extra patience is required as we wait for all votes to be counted.

Every voice matters, regardless of background, race, age, economic level or zip code. Thus, every vote should be counted.

We also know that the strength of our democracy is more important than any individual candidate. Our vision to protect wildlands and put them to work for the betterment of our communities depends on a strong democracy that works for everyone. And any candidate who tries to sow doubt about legitimate electoral processes or claim a clear victory before all ballots are counted is simply wrong to do so.

Every voice matters, regardless of background, race, age, economic level or zip code. Thus, every vote should be counted.

As a conservation organization that focuses on public lands, we know a functioning democracy is core to our work.  Through the principles of public participation, people of all walks are able to be heard on policies that impact our land, water and communities.

Yet over the past four years, the Trump administration has undermined public participation rules and repeatedly shut the public out of key decisions impacting our lands. We cannot let him do this with the election as well.

From rural towns to big cities, our supporters come from all walks of life. We have always raised our voices for wildlands and our environment. Now we must come together for our democracy. Regardless of who holds office, we will continue our critical work to ensure that our public lands help to create a healthy, just and equitable future for all.

And no matter what happens in these coming days, we ask that you join us in defending each and every voice and demand that every vote be counted.

Sincerely,

Jamie Williams

President