My love of the outdoors has been on a slow, steady build for quite a few years. From the first forays into camping to setting and attaining hiking goals, I’ve been privileged with knowledgable people who surrounded me. Through it all I found it frustrating that I only see people who look like me. So I started looking. Facebook, Instagram and the outdoor brands I love are all offering opportunities to understand what keeps folks from the trails. If you are looking to broaden your understanding of the many ways people view the outdoors and the challenges they face you may want to check out these folks who have broadened my view of what it means to be active in the outdoors and what I can do to make the outdoors a welcoming place for all people.
You’ll find some of my favorite resources below, but this is by no means an exhaustive list. As I add to my listening experiences, I’ll add more so check back anytime. If you’d like to add your favorites to the list, please share them in a comment or reach out.
Podcasts
Nomads at the Intersections – a podcast hosted by Noami Grevemberg and Anaïs Monique which deep dives into the stories of diverse, often unheard voices as they live nomadic lives.
There are plenty of people to follow out there to expand and challenge your perceptions of the world. I believe in the simple fact we need to spend time listening to voices which reflect views other than our own. We need to uplift the voices of those who are less often acknowledge or heard. It doesn’t mean I share their experiences or can begin to understand them. It means I’m trying. These are just a few of my favorites who occupy space on my feed in no particular order.
@blackfolkscamptoo
@korialexis
@emilyontrail
@disabledhikers
@nomadsattheintersectionspod
@akunahikes
@abstract.hikes
@themirnavator
@footprintsforchange
@ashanishinaabe
@katieboue
@itsecogal
@irietoaurora
@she_colorsnature
@downwithadventure
@_lotusblossom
@nativewomenswilderness
@indigenouswomenhike
@hownottotravelpod
@zest_ed_athletics
@pattiegonia
@jamesvukelich
I also want to be clear that while I’m listening to these voices, it’s not their job to educate me. I don’t go to their feeds to ask questions. If I comment at all, it’s in support of their experience. I don’t always get it right. I just keep listening.
Websites
Native-Land – Want to know who the indigenous people are/were who lived on the land where you live, work and recreate? This is a great map-based resource for learning. Links on the map take you to resources to explore and learn more about the histories and peoples based on geographic locations.
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