HADS (Humans Against Dragon Stereotypes) was founded in 2001 by a group of individuals brave enough to stand in a protective circle around these magnificent creatures.

One member, author Jackie Gamber, tells her story:

“It was in the process of writing my novel, Redheart, that I first became sensitized to the harsh effects modern media had on shaping human perception of dragons.  Of course there are those dragons who fall prey to a darker nature, with the occasional stealing of a cow or razing of a village, but should those violent few paint the portrayal of all dragonkind?  I realized I could use my gift to be the voice for all dragons everywhere, allowing humans to see that we have more in common with these misunderstood creatures than we realize.  The human condition applies to them, as much as us.

“We as humans must learn that we share this earth.  We are not alone.  It’s my privilege and honor to bring this awareness to humankind, opening communication between our species and [dragons], and to enrich us all in the process.”