So Now What?
In the Winter issue of Adventure Park Insider, we explored some of the issues around diversity. We looked at and redesigned our limiting beliefs, and took on the challenge of shifting the familiar outdoor industry mindset to become more accepting. So what do we do now?
It takes work to put ideas into action. In my work as a consultant, I often get asked, “How do we find the people? How do we invite the people?” Yes, we want diverse representation among our staff, and yes, we want a more diverse client base. But how do we find them way out here in [insert rural area]? How do we create trust and have people know that it is safe for them to come here both physically and emotionally? How do we engage with the community?
Continued at Adventure Park Insider
Challenging Our Beliefs
“Black people don’t do that.” There are many blockers to creating diversity in the outdoor industry, and this is one I have heard all my life. But this is perhaps the core blocker, and it plays a role in many of the others.
“Black people don’t do that.” There are many blockers to creating diversity in the outdoor industry, and this is one I have heard all my life. But this is perhaps the core blocker, and it plays a role in many of the others.
We all know there are blockers to creating diversity in the outdoors, such as accessibility, i.e., getting to and being able to afford outdoor pursuits. Another is the outdoors culture being affected by systematic racism and resignation. Then there’s the old adage, “It’s just always been this way.” Another is the question of how do rural operations reach more diverse, often city-based populations.
Continued at Adventure Park Insider
Creating Diversity in the Outdoor Industry
The topic of diversity and inclusion filters down to communities and businesses around the globe, and the adventure park industry is no exception. Of course, the conversation around diversity can be a bit touchy and uncomfortable, especially in the tempestuous times of late. Often people don’t know how to discuss an issue that is so sensitive to so many, so they avoid it altogether. We’re no different. Seeking shelter from the discomfort of a potentially confrontational conversation may be more common than meeting the challenge head on.
The topic of diversity and inclusion filters down to communities and businesses around the globe, and the adventure park industry is no exception. Of course, the conversation around diversity can be a bit touchy and uncomfortable, especially in the tempestuous times of late. Often people don’t know how to discuss an issue that is so sensitive to so many, so they avoid it altogether. We’re no different. Seeking shelter from the discomfort of a potentially confrontational conversation may be more common than meeting the challenge head on.
The good news is: Our industry, and our country as is evident by recent events, is hungry for a change. The bad news: We’ll need to get uncomfortable to get there. The better news: There is a road map to navigating the discomfort.
Continued at Adventure Park Insider