Visibility, Joy, and Community in the Year Ahead
We’ve Always Been Outside
Black people have claimed, fought for, and carved out our place in the outdoors—even when we were purposefully excluded. From hidden trails to neighborhood parks, backyards to national parks, we’ve made room for ourselves and our communities when the world said we didn’t belong. That legacy is something to celebrate.
As we step into 2026, we look forward to more joy, deeper connections, and greater celebration of Black presence outdoors. Social media, grassroots communities, and post-COVID meetups have amplified the ways we gather, share, and support one another. The outdoors is no longer just a place to exercise or escape—it’s a platform for visibility, wellness, creativity, and community. It’s a space to reclaim time, joy, and resilience on our own terms—and to invite others to do the same.
This year, we commit to stepping boldly into these spaces together. We will prioritize experiences that spark playfulness and happiness, build connections through mentorship and meetups, celebrate stories and achievements, remove barriers to participation, and use the outdoors as a tool for wellness, growth, and resilience.
Every trail hiked, river paddled, or park visited reminds us: our presence matters, our joy matters, and our communities matter. In 2026, we move forward with intention, celebrating who we are, what we do, and the spaces we create for each other—because when we show up together, the outdoors becomes more than a place. It becomes a movement.
This year is about showing up—perfectly imperfect, consistently, and together. Whether you join a group hike, try something new, return to a favorite spot, or simply carve out more outdoor moments, you belong here.
BPDSO will continue to share stories, resources, and opportunities that make it easier to get outside, stay outside, and feel supported while doing it. 2026 is a year for movement, connection, and celebration—and it starts with deciding to step outside.
With joy and on purpose—
See you outside,
B.P.D.S.O.
