Making outdoor field experiences more inclusive for the LGBTQ+ community

Abstract

Outdoor field experiences have not historically been welcoming to marginalized communities. Recent calls to address the lack of diversity in outdoor field experiences have accelerated efforts to make programs more inclusive for multiple marginalized identity groups. Despite these efforts, many cultural and procedural changes are still needed to support the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer or Questioning (LGBTQ+) community when participating in outdoor field experiences. Here we use results from a survey of leaders from 17 outdoor programs and expertise gained from our own experiences cultivating inclusion in field programs to outline strategies that outdoor field experience providers can use to foster greater support for the LGBTQ+ community. We define key terminology to increase awareness of LGBTQ+ identities and pronouns. We then highlight important actions that field experience leaders can take to make their internships, education programs, and trips more accessible and inclusive for the LGBTQ+ community. We use results from our survey of outdoor programs to highlight practices currently being used to support LGBTQ+ inclusion and accessibility and synthesize how current practice aligns with our overall recommendations. The LGBTQ+ community deserves to be welcomed into outdoor field experiences and to participate fully as students, researchers, educators, recreators, and professionals.

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