Racism has been declared a public health emergency in Vermont. Racism permeates all aspect of society, including outdoor recreation, and this hurts everyone. We like to think that racism doesn’t exist in Vermont, but it does. To learn about how racism has shaped outdoor recreation and how you can participate in anti-racism in outdoor recreation, please see the information below.
Racism in Outdoor Recreation
- Outdoor recreation has historically excluded people of color. That’s beginning to change
- 15 Organizations Advancing Diversity Outdoors
- Breaking Down the Lack of Diversity in Outdoor Spaces
- The American Hiking Society: Racism in the Outdoors Resources
The Vermont Racial Justice Alliance: Through Black leadership the Vermont Racial Justice Alliance addresses the root causes and impact of systemic racism with an approach that includes solutions ranging from platforms and initiatives; outreach and education; community engagement and support; and, cultural empowerment programming.
Recommended reading: The Sum of Us: Author Heather McGhee draws on a wealth of economic data to make the case that discriminatory laws and practices that target African Americans also negatively impact society at large.