Why ZANE Matters
Studies suggest at least 20% of the world’s population is neurodivergent. Meeting the needs of this demographic both among staff and visitors is vital to zoos and aquariums fulfilling their missions of saving wildlife. ZANE aims to provide these institutions the resources and support they need to make their organizations as accessible and accommodating as possible.
Additionally, being neurodivergent can be very isolating and come with significant stigmas. ZANE provides an opportunity to let these people know they are not alone, connect them with an open and understanding community of allies and create a platform for them to use their collective voice to advocate for positive change.
The genesis of ZANE is rooted in reshaping the way zoological professionals understand, support, and uplift each other, fostering a culture built on love and inclusion to drive meaningful change. By strengthening these connections, we empower individuals and organizations to better achieve their missions of conservation and community engagement. Our goal is to create culture shifts to ensure that every individual feels a deep sense of belonging within the zoo and aquarium field. Through education, advocacy, and compassionate leadership, we aim to infuse love into work environments where all staff members will thrive.
Mission
ZANE aims to help zoological institutions create an inclusive environment for staff and guests, connect a supportive community of neurodivergent zoo professionals and allies together and ensure that neurodivergent perspectives are recognized and utilized in all zoological practices.
Vision
Create a zoo and aquarium world where neurodivergent individuals are included, celebrated, feel belonging, and are provided equitable opportunities to be leaders in the zoological conservation movement.
Core Values- CIA
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C-urious: Try to learn what you don’t know when it comes to neurodiversity- ask us or self advocates you know how we can help you better understand.
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I-nclusive: Create as neurodivergent friendly of a work environment as possible and strive to make positive change, whether sweeping or incremental.
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A-dvocatory: Empower and embrace neurodivergent voices in the organization.
