Community
Kerrio
Kerrio is a young elephant from Kenya, rescued after being orphaned due to poaching or human-wildlife conflict. Now living at an orphanage, she receives the care and support she needs to thrive. Kerrio's journey from adversity to safety highlights the importance of wildlife conservation efforts in protecting these majestic animals. She symbolizes hope and resilience, drawing attention to the critical work being done to ensure a future for elephants like her.
The Inspiring Adoption of Kerrio:
A Gift from Salesia Smith-Gordon to SDCBWLA
In a touching and meaningful gesture, Salesia Smith-Gordon recently decided to honor the Sheree Davis Cunningham Black Women Lawyers Association (SDCBWLA) with a unique gift — the adoption of Kerrio, a young elephant at an orphanage in Kenya. This thoughtful act is rich with symbolism and purpose, reflecting a deep commitment to wildlife preservation and a strong connection to the values held by SDCBWLA and its members.
The Significance of Kerrio's Adoption
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Sorority Symbolism: Judge Sheree Davis Cunningham is a dedicated member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority where many members historically collect elephants as a symbolizing strength and determination. The elephant is a symbol of Delta Sigma Theta, a sorority that many members of SDCBWLA are associated with. This connection makes the adoption of Kerrio even more personal and significant.
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Alignment with the Florida Bar's Animal Law Section: SDCBWLA’s affiliation with the Florida Bar’s Animal Law Section highlights its commitment to addressing legal issues related to animal welfare. Adopting Kerrio brings attention to critical issues such as poaching laws, wildlife economics, and the broader concerns of animal extinction and conservation efforts
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Historical Connection: Elephants are known for their incredible memories and their ability to remember locations, individuals, and events for many years. This characteristic makes them a powerful symbol of the importance of preserving history and memory.
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Family and Community: Elephants live in tight-knit family groups where they find safety and support, much like the mission of SDCBWLA, which aims to create a supportive community for its members.
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Personal Meaning: During recent safari travels in Tanzania and Kenya, Salesia Smith-Gordon decided to bring back a very unique and meaningful gift to SDCBWLA - the adoption of Kerrio. Kerrio is a young rescued female elephant now protected and cared for at the Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage in Nairobi, Kenya. Salesia Smith-Gordon’s connection to wildlife preservation, demonstrated through her safari travels and long-term membership with the Nature Conservancy, adds a layer of personal significance to the adoption and heartfelt gift to the organization. This act reflects her passion for animal welfare and environmental conservation.
The choice of Kerrio as a gift is not random; it is imbued with layers of significance. Her adoption resonates with SDCBWLA's mission in several ways:
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Memorability: Elephants are majestic creatures known for their intelligence and long memories.
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Alignment with SDCBWLA’s Values: Sheree Davis Cunningham Black Women Lawyers Association is dedicated to mentoring, caring, and supporting women in law. The nurturing nature of the matriarchal elephant parallels these values, as elephants provide guidance, protection, and support within their herds.
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Kerrio: A Symbol of Survival and Care
Kerrio’s story is one of survival and care. As a young elephant at the orphanage, she represents the resilience of wildlife and the importance of human intervention in protecting endangered species. The monthly reports provided to the adopter offer a glimpse into Kerrio’s growth and well-being, reinforcing the impact of conservation efforts.
The provided YouTube link (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TMzGH4BXlTo) offers more insight into Kerrio's journey and the broader mission of the orphanage, showcasing the crucial work being done to safeguard these magnificent creatures.
Elephants, like those in Kerrio's herd, are symbols of community and protection. Their existence and survival remind us of the importance of family, mentorship, and the unwavering strength found in unity. This connection to the law is profound; it underscores the necessity of legal frameworks to protect the vulnerable, be it animals or people, ensuring justice and safety for all.
Conclusion
The adoption of Kerrio by Salesia Smith-Gordon for Sheree Davis Cunningham Black Women Lawyer Association is a multifaceted gift that goes beyond the act of giving. It is a symbol of connection, care, and conservation, resonating deeply with SDCBWLA’s values and affiliations. Through this adoption, Salesia Smith-Gordon not only honors the organization but also contributes to the vital cause of wildlife preservation, ensuring that the story of Kerrio, and many elephants like her, continues to be told and remembered.