Like at the beginning of every new year, unless you are Nostradamus, what lies ahead is unknown. 2021 will undoubtedly be filled with unknowns. But here at The Elephant Project, we believe that this New Year brings with it hope that has not been seen since World Wars consumed our planet – hope that the destruction and devastation will end, and that renewal and rebuilding will follow. Hope that the worst is behind us.

The journey to protect elephants is a journey filled with challenges but challenges that can be overcome through the continued efforts of the groups and individuals committed to elephant protection and conservation. We continue to do what we can by working on several fronts both domestically and internationally but a major focus of our organizational efforts continues to be helping Myanmar’s elephants through various projects in the country.

There is so much amazing work being done around the world to help protect elephants but let’s do what we can in our own backyard to help their efforts. Let’s get Congress to act now by passing legislation to end the Trump Administration’s support for the slaughter of elephants and return the protections that have been supported for decades by Presidents of both political parties. Elephant protection should not be a partisan issue - saving them is a testament to our humanity.

I am a believer in direct democracy and its ability to empower the people. I have seen how animal welfare advocates have used direct democracy to unite people at the ballot box. I am a believer in the protection of animals as well and particularly elephants. I feel strongly that saving this majestic, iconic, keystone species is a testament to our humanity and if we fail, then, in my opinion, we have failed as humans – and I am not alone in those beliefs.

The Elephant Project is creating new communities in developing countries that will provide jobs, housing, education and health care to the people. We will create real estate investment opportunities for those who want to own a home or invest in a business in an exotic location near an elephant sanctuary, and we will create a safe and secure home for captive and wild elephants in need. Does this sound crazy? Innovative? Both?