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Let’s Engage! Outdoors for All – Nature is a Human Right

As President of the Outdoor Equity Coalition Board, my vision is clear: every person, regardless of their background, should have the opportunity to experience the healing and joy of nature. We must overcome the barriers to participation in outdoor activities, emphasizing pro-equity initiatives that ensure inclusivity and access for all.

Our commitment is to foster a diverse and welcoming environment where nature’s benefits are accessible to everyone. By breaking down systemic barriers and promoting equity, we strive to create a future where the outdoors is a shared sanctuary for all communities.

Bigtent Coalition c/o

Outdoor Equity Coalition 
Reco Bembry, Board President  

The Outdoor Equity Corps is a proposed initiative comprising approximately 10 full-time members from the Washington Service Corps and 10 part-time members from the AmeriCorps. The initiative aims to break down barriers and ensure equal access to the benefits of outdoor recreation for BIPOC communities.

This initiative includes:

  • Contract Services: Engaging in contract services that open up pathways for BIPOC communities to participate in and benefit from the outdoor recreation sector.
  • Hikes for Healing: Organizing "Hikes for Healing" to promote mental and physical well-being, cultural connection, and community building in natural settings.
  • Career Pathways: Creating career pathways into outdoor recreation jobs, ensuring that BIPOC individuals have access to meaningful and sustainable employment in this sector.
  • Cultural Exchange and Respect: Promoting the sharing of multiple cultures and respecting the sovereign rights of Indigenous communities through cultural exchange events.

Addressing Disparities in Nature Access
The average white family spends 65 days in nature per year, while the average Black and Brown family spends only 3 days. This significant disparity highlights the urgent need to address barriers and create more equitable access to nature for all communities (Hispanic Access).

The Outdoor Equity Fund

The Outdoor Equity Fund, supported by Big Tent Coalition is an innovative initiative to promote inclusivity and equity in outdoor recreation. By providing direct funding and fostering strong partnerships, this fund aims to ensure that all communities have access to the outdoors, promoting health, well-being, and unity. Join us in this mission to build a future where every community can enjoy and benefit from the great outdoors.

The Outdoor Equity Fund has made significant strides in promoting inclusivity and access to outdoor recreation for marginalized communities in Washington State. Here are a few success stories:

1. **Increased Grant Accessibility**: The Washington State Recreation and Conservation Funding Board has revised its grant evaluation criteria to better serve communities with fewer parks and open spaces. This change has led to more equitable distribution of funds, ensuring that underserved communities can benefit from outdoor recreation facilities.

2. **Support for Small Businesses**: The Outdoor Equity Coalition will been instrumental in supporting small outdoor recreation businesses that serve and employ BIPOC and other marginalized communities. This support helps these businesses thrive in a competitive market, fostering economic growth and community engagement.

3. **Legislative Wins**: We will engage in inclusive advocacy efforts have resulted in significant legislative victories, securing state funding for trails and outdoor access. These wins ensure that trails remain funded, safe, and accessible, benefiting hikers and outdoor enthusiasts across the state.

These ideas highlight the positive impact of the Outdoor Equity Fund in creating a more inclusive and equitable outdoor recreation environment.

The Outdoor Equity Fund will emerge as a fantastic initiative that provides resources to BIPOC-led organizations dedicated to promoting outdoor recreation and nature's healing benefits for marginalized communities in Washington State. Supported by the Big Tent Coalition, this fund aims to foster inclusivity and equity in outdoor activities.

By offering direct funding and building strong partnerships, the Outdoor Equity Fund ensures that all communities can access and enjoy the outdoors. This initiative promotes health, well-being, and unity, creating a future where everyone can benefit from nature's offerings.

Join us in this mission to make the great outdoors accessible to all!


The Challenges/Barriers 

Key barriers to participation in nature by BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and People of Color) communities in Washington State include:

  • Historical and Systemic Racism: The legacy of discriminatory policies and practices has created lasting mistrust and limited access to natural spaces for BIPOC communities. Historical exclusion from national parks and outdoor recreation areas has perpetuated a sense of alienation.
  • Economic Barriers: The cost of outdoor activities, equipment, and transportation can be prohibitive for many BIPOC individuals and families. Economic disparities often mean that these communities have fewer resources to spend on recreational activities.
  • Lack of Representation: BIPOC communities often do not see themselves represented in outdoor recreation marketing, leadership, and programming. This lack of representation can make outdoor spaces feel unwelcoming or inaccessible.
  • Cultural Relevance: Many outdoor programs and activities are not designed with the cultural backgrounds and interests of BIPOC communities in mind. This can result in a lack of culturally relevant experiences that resonate with these communities.
  • Safety and Discrimination Concerns: BIPOC individuals may face racial profiling, discrimination, or even hostility in outdoor spaces, which can deter them from participating in outdoor activities. Concerns about personal safety and encountering racism can be significant barriers.
  • Access and Proximity: Many BIPOC communities live in urban areas with limited access to nearby parks and natural spaces. Lack of transportation options further exacerbates this issue, making it difficult for individuals to reach outdoor recreational areas.
  • Lack of Knowledge and Skills: There can be a knowledge gap regarding outdoor activities, including how to safely and effectively participate in them. Without exposure or education about these activities, BIPOC communities may feel unprepared to engage in outdoor recreation.
  • Health and Mobility Issues: Health disparities, including higher rates of chronic illnesses and disabilities, can limit the ability of BIPOC individuals to participate in outdoor activities. Accessibility issues in parks and recreational areas can further hinder participation.
  • Environmental Justice Concerns: Many BIPOC communities are disproportionately affected by environmental hazards and lack of green spaces in their neighborhoods. This can limit their opportunities to connect with nature and prioritize other pressing issues over recreational activities.

Addressing these barriers requires targeted efforts to create inclusive, welcoming, and accessible outdoor experiences for BIPOC communities. This includes improving representation, providing economic support, ensuring safety, and developing culturally relevant programming.