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EQUITY & JUSTICE IN SCIENCE AND THE OUTDOORS
EQUITY AND JUSTICE IN SCIENCE AND THE OUTDOORS
We work at the intersection of science and the outdoors–two arenas where women, gender-nonconforming individuals, disabled people, and Black, Indigenous, and people of color (BIPOC) have not just been made unwelcome–they’ve been made unsafe.
In 2019, we began overdue work to restructure our systems so everyone will feel included, valued, and safe engaging with Adventure Scientists regardless of their identity. In our commitment to an Equity, Inclusion, and Justice (EIJ) framework, we recognize that the impacts of climate change and environmental degradation disproportionately harm the most vulnerable including women, BIPOC communities, hardworking communities with low- to moderate-income individuals, and those who are not able to advocate for themselves. Adventure Scientists’ purpose derives from our investment in protecting global ecosystems for the good of all people. We are committed to leveling the playing field so that everyone starts at the same place and has a favorable chance of succeeding.
In 2020, we begin developing intentional collaborative relationships with tribal nations on whose land our volunteers do work. Within our team, we also regularly discussed systemic racism and bias, integrating equity, inclusion, and justice into our work staff-wide. We sought out and developed relationships with outdoor groups that promote diversity and inclusion in the outdoors. And as of late 2020, we engaged The Avarna Group to conduct an assessment of our organization and guide us on concrete actions to implement so that we model and encourage the dignity that everyone has a right to experience.
We welcome a world where science and the outdoors are no longer realms that protect the privileged. Everyone benefits when all are safe.
