The great outdoors has always been for everyone, right? It’s hard to think about possible exclusion when you’re enjoying grand views and cascading waterfalls at Ricketts Glen State Park, but it’s no surprise that outdoor recreation has been historically dominated by a certain demographic. It’s time to change that.

Understanding DEIB in the outdoors

Diversity – DCNR Director of DEIB Arlene Marshall–Hockensmith, Esq. spoke with attendees at the Pocono Forests and Waters Conservation Landscape Annual Meeting in February. She proposed that the outdoors represent a vibrant mosaic filled with different colors made of pieces that are different shapes and sizes. Diversity in outdoor recreation should be about filling these spaces with people from all walks of life and ensuring that they feel like they are part of the adventure.

Equity – Equity is about breaking down the barriers so that no one is left out of outdoor recreation. Pennsylvania is one of the few states in the Northeastern region that does not charge an entry fee for state parks, a positive example of a barrier that is not an issue for us. Still, equity can be improved by increasing recreation opportunities in urban areas, advocating for transportation alternatives to rural spaces, and making sure that everyone has a seat at the table.

Inclusion – We were all kids on the playground at some point in our life! Inclusion is all about making sure that everyone feels like they can be a part of the fun and games, even if they don’t have the latest REI gear or crazy camping stories like you do.

Belonging – Going a little bit beyond inclusion, belonging is not only about making sure that everyone has a place, but that they feel genuinely valued and accepted. We should want everyone to freely and safely connect with nature and to experience the physical, mental, and spiritual benefits of time in the outdoors.

Let your voice be heard.

A shift in understanding about Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging (DEIB) in the outdoors has created a space to explore these inequities and foster a future that invites everyone to feel at home in nature.

Here are some ways you can make a difference, or be a part of the conversation:

Spot and Report Barriers – Look around to see what may be keeping some folks away. Does the signage match the spoken language of all the visitors? Is a lovely overlook inaccessible to wheelchairs because of a short distance over a few steps? It may take time and money to fix some of these barriers, but knowledge is power, and your voice can make a difference!

Plan Inclusive Activities – If you are part of an organization or group, plan some fun and inclusive bike rides, paddling trips, hikes, or even picnics to get people exposed to the outdoors.  You might even think about partnering with outfitters to offer gear at a lower cost, or partner with another organization to provide events in multiple languages.

Represent and lead – Seeing diverse communities in the outdoors helps to set the tone for inclusivity. Be an ambassador for your community and work to create a safe space. This is also an opportunity to practice the  Authority of the Resource and to share constructive ideas for good stewardship in the outdoors.

Cultivate Belonging – One of my favorite things about the outdoors is that it enables you to connect with other people in a way that you don’t on a sidewalk in the city. A friendly hello or a brief conversation about the trail can really set a welcoming tone and make each of you feel at ease. Celebrate the fact that everyone experiences the outdoors differently and make sure that you listen to those diverse voices, you might just find a new way to hear the spirit of nature.

Let us know if you have other opportunities or ideas to turn the outdoors into a place where everyone feels connected. Happy Trails to all!