This project has definitely been eye opening, so let me go into a of bit history as to why the outdoors is very exclusive to people of color.

Outdoor exclusion has been around for thousands of years. Institutionalized legislation laws segregated people of color away from public land such as beaches, national forests and parks. Just over 50 years ago, the 1964 Civil Rights Act granted permission for Black communities to access these spaces.

But that does not mean black people or people of color felt safe in these spaces. A large amount of lynchings would occur in outdoor spaces. (National Health Foundation)

Another unsettling component for people of color in the outdoor space is the white washing history of public land. Land that was originally indigenously claimed and owned have been named after white “founding fathers” like the John Muir Trail.

Thankfully, times are changing, and plenty of people of color occupy the outdoor spaces.

But we cannot forget why public land has a history of segregation and discrimination, which still leaves barriers for family histories of not enjoying outdoor spaces.

Amazingly, the LA community has so much to offer BIPOCs who are interested in the outdoors. Below are resources of clubs, videos, blogs, articles, and even places to donate and support that help BIPOC outdoor enthusiasts.

Please send me any resources that you know of too!

I’m hopeful that people who haven’t experienced racism and discrimination in the outdoors will listen with an open mind to BIPOC’s experiences and help make the outdoor community more welcoming and safe.

If you or anyone you know would like to be photographed and share a story, please reach out to me!