Diversity, Equity and Inclusion

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Everyone Belongs Outdoors

As your partner in conservation, education and recreation. the Appalachian Mountain Club is inspired by the untold diversity of our members and friends. We aim to be an inclusive, equitable, and kind community. We are committed to new membership and new leadership for those not historically represented by outdoor clubs and those who are new outdoor enthusiasts. And we are also building collaborations across committees within our Delaware Valley Chapter and across other AMC chapters while we form external collaborations with local schools, colleges and other outdoor clubs. At AMC we are united in our adventures by mutual trust, collective safety, respect for the natural world and appreciation for our time together outdoors.

In June 2020, AMC took a public position against racism and racist violence, and to stand in solidarity with Black Lives Matter. In the Delaware Valley our Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) Committee is exploring ways to make our organization and its activities more inclusive and welcoming to all.

AMC’s main DEI web page

AMC-DV DEI Overview for 2021

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Understanding AMC’s Initiative

Video One, 20 minutes, Definitions and Terminology, diversity, equity, inclusion, tolerance, etc.

Why is DEI Important to AMC?

Video One, 20 minutes

DEI Information for leaders

Urban Hike Library

Philadelphia mural walks and hikes: Downtown Mural Hike Map and Description

Resources to plan various routes and lengths through the mural capital of the world.

Lehigh Valley – Easton: Karl Stirner Trail Two miles, wheelchair accessible, Guide and map.

Visit various works of the international renowned sculptor through Easton and along the Bushkill Creek, 2.2 to 3.2 miles.

DEI Resource

Summary

Backpacker’s article on Black Hikers Week

Article: about Debbie Njai, founder of Black People Who Hike.

Make The Outdoors More Equitable

Article: by Juan Michael Porter II about the need for equity in the outdoors, and space for Black people to be safe in the outdoors.

We’re Here. You Just Don’t See Us.

Article: There’s a common misconception that black people don’t love wild places. Latria Graham, a southerner with deep connections to farms, rivers, and forests, says the problem isn’t desire but access—and a long history of laws and customs that have whitewashed our finest public lands.

Out There, Nobody Can Hear You Scream

Article: Two years ago, Latria Graham wrote an essay about the challenges of being Black in the outdoors. Countless readers reached out to her, asking for advice on how to stay safe in places where nonwhite people aren’t always welcome. She didn’t write back, because she had no idea what to say. In the aftermath of a revolutionary spring and summer, she responds.

Black Faces, White Spaces: Reimagining the Relationship of African Americans to the Great Outdoors.

A book available at libraries, at online booksellers and at bookstores.

Book: by Carolyn Finney about reimagining the relationship of African Americans to the great outdoors.

Tips for AMC Activity Leaders

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Be welcoming to all, particularly those who appear new to the group or aren’t assimilating as easily.
Assume the role of an ambassador for the club
Consider offering a wide range of activities. As an example: Short and easier walks for new, older, or occasional participants; and more strenuous hikes for participants who are looking for a challenge.
Consider offering wheelchair accessible activities in appropriate locations.
Consider offering family-friendly activities to allow adults with children to participate as well. (All children must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.)
Consider associating activities with a community event or organization. Use these events and organizations to help publicize the activity.
Think about the terminology in your write-up. Does the term “walk” fit the description better if it’s a casual meander along a rail trail?
Consider meeting spots that are close to public transportation. If possible, offer public transportation information in your write up.
Consider offering a theme or educational opportunity along with the activity. As an example, a Mural hike, history hike, wild flower identification hike, etc. Make sure to include this information in your write up.
Choose language and behavior that is inclusive of all viewpoints and unbiased in decision- making
Avoid blaming and shaming; seek out learning opportunities.
Be accepting of different types of gear. Only if there is a true safety issue should someone be excluded due to gear.
Protect the privacy of personal information.