Writing Inclusion into the Outdoors
The work starts here , say Josephine Collingwood , OWPG Membership Secretary , and Mary-Ann Ochota
In May , 2024 Mary-Ann Ochota presented an OWPG Zoom on Writing Inclusion into the Outdoors . This hugely popular event was open to members and non-members , and its success has inspired us to organise more public OWPG events in the future . By making the event open to all , we can put subjects front and centre for discussion and action , and also raise awareness of the OWPG and our community .
The Zoom recording can be viewed on the OWPG YouTube channel , or for members via the OWPG website at owpg . org . uk / owpg-zooms /.
Inclusion and privilege Inclusion isn ’ t about ‘ letting ’ people join the group , publication , or community – or conducting a token ‘ diversity-wash ’ by including photos of some nonwhite people in your next guidebook . Truly inclusive practice is about bringing diversity into decision-making , leadership , and the development of ideas .
The idea of ‘ privilege ’ is often misunderstood . It might be more useful to think about ‘ unearned advantage ’. I don ’ t use a wheelchair , so I can turn up at any venue and confidently assume that there will be a toilet I can use . I didn ’ t earn that advantage – but I certainly benefit from it . Your privilege impacts whether you ’ re safe , welcome , included , and able to fully participate .
Is there a problem with inclusivity ? Yes ! Research by the BMC indicates that there are significantly fewer climbers , mountaineers , and walkers from ethnically diverse backgrounds or with disabilities than in the wider population .
As outdoor professionals , we need to acknowledge that tackling this is our responsibility . We have the power to change whose stories are told , how people are represented , and what ‘ normal ’ looks like .
So what should I do ? First up is a critical audit : uncover your personal and organisational preconceptions and stereotypes . Identify areas that require change , and create a vision of where you ’ d like to get to .
Ask – is diversity a subject we cover , or is it part of our DNA ? Have a solid , consistent editorial stance – for example , don ’ t run a ‘ top hikes for beginners ’ feature , and then an opinion piece complaining about ‘ hordes ’ of new walkers .
Freelancers should do this audit too . Who are my regular trail buddies and photographic subjects – are they representative of wider , diverse society ? If not , how can I widen my network ? Are there times I could pass work to someone else ? Could I share the credit and co-write ? Rather than fighting over crumbs , why not work together to share a loaf ?
Representation Don ’ t just use an image or interview with someone from a minority group when you ’ re running a feature on diversity . A person with a visible minority characteristic should never have to justify their inclusion .
4 outdoor focus / summer 2024