From Boston to Yosemite: A New Leader's Reflection
Meet Chaya Harris. An Educator, Writer, Camper, World Traveler and First Year Outdoor Afro Leader! Chaya shares her reflection on our recent national training held in Yosemite National Park and a preview of what Outdoor Afro Boston should expect for this year!
What inspired you to apply for the Outdoor Afro leadership team?
Outdoor Afro somehow found me! I love being outside, but was frustrated that I was often alone on these adventures, and rarely saw anyone that looked like me. Sometimes I’ll hike with my dad, and we have a running tally about how many black people we see on the trail; he’s perfected the head-nod and “How ya’ doing?” that comes with the minority territory.
As an educator in my community, I also noticed a disconnect between many children and the outdoors. I know nature can play a crucial part in child development, whether it’s exploring, growing food or learning how to ride a bike, and I want every child to have access to these experiences. Lastly, since Outdoor Afro celebrates and inspires black people and their connection to nature, it is important to share our history and contributions. Learning more about our cultures and our collective impact on nature while having fun outside is a huge bonus!
Why is Boston ready for an Outdoor Afro network?
There’s a huge range of outdoor activities in and around Boston for all interests, ages and fitness levels. Plus a wealth of black and Native history here that isn’t shared widely or frequently enough. Bringing the Outdoor Afro network to Boston gives us the space to explore and connect with our rich culture and history.
How would you characterize your experience joining 60 leaders from the Outdoor Afro training in Yosemite?
In one word: nourishing.
When I headed home from the Outdoor Afro training, I felt like it was high school graduation. I was motivated, excited and felt like I had an understanding family to support me with not only developing a group here in Boston, but also with developing myself. It was bittersweet to leave my new friends so soon, yet inspiring to be a part of a nationwide network.
All of the workshops were just as entertaining as informative. I learned helpful tips for planning events, important elements of community activism, and interesting facts about black wellness, all in an engaging and open manner. Presenters were knowledgeable, and their passion permeated the sessions. In addition to learning, I loved connecting with the other 60 outdoor enthusiasts from veteran leaders, fellow educators to die hard sports fans was just a wonderful experience. Even our partners from REI, Keen, Columbia, Klean Kanteen, and Sierra Club were very welcoming and spoke with me as a friend, not as a customer.
And to top it off, founder Rue Mapp closed out training with a pinning ceremony and a giant Soul Train line!
What was your favorite workshop at the training and why?
I really enjoyed the Risk Management workshop with REI and St. Louis leader Duane Williams. The workshop included and a interactive icebreaker activity, learning risk management the Outdoor Afro way and applying our new tools and knowledge to various scenarios. This lively workshop taught me about facilitating a group, boundaries and cooperating with various personalities. It also revealed that everyone has their unique experiences, and that leaders need to offer empathy encouragement and support during Outdoor Afro events.
Tell us 3 main lessons you learned at the training that you are excited to apply in your Boston outdoor Afro events
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- Fostering a community the Outdoor Afro way. I look forward leading our signature opening and closing circles and also connecting and engaging with members.
- Learning and sharing history. I’m excited to learn about and share the history of outdoor spaces as they relate to Boston’s diverse culture.
- Be prepared! I look forward to applying trip planning skills to preparing upcoming events.
Can you give us a preview of what's in store for Outdoor Afro Boston this year?
This year, Outdoor Afros in Boston should look forward to a variety of activities: exploring the Black Heritage Trail around Beacon Hill, hiking in the Blue Hills, visiting the Inkwell on Martha’s Vineyard, and tracing Sojourner Truth’s footsteps in Western Mass. We’ll also hit the water with standup paddle-boarding and explore a Harbor Island in honor of black seamen. During the winter, of course we have to hit the New England slopes with skiing and snowboarding. I look forward to sharing with my community the many ways to enjoy the outdoors without breaking the bank!
Connect with Outdoor Afro Boston for your next adventure!!!!
An Earth Day Reflection on the Legacy of Black Stewardship in St. Louis
Outdoor Afro St. Louis Leader Duane L. Williams invites you to make Learning and Sharing Black Conservationist History an Earth Day tradition.
By Outdoor Afro Leader Duane Williams
What are some of your memories of celebrating Earth Day as a child?
My earliest Earth Day memory is participating in a drum circle in Forest Park in St. Louis. I remember feeling connected to other drummers but also feeling deeply connected to the planet. The experience reminded me that I’m not the only person who cherishes wild spaces and that we have a collective duty to steward and enjoy our lands. Since that day I use Earth Day as a day of celebration and reflection- celebrating the Earth while reflecting on my impact and what I can do better as a climate responsible citizen.
Since becoming an Outdoor Afro Leader, what have you discovered about the history of Black stewardship in St. Louis’s public green spaces?
I learned about the important role of 1743rd Civilian Conservation Corp (CCC) in stewarding Washington State Park.
The Civilian Conservation Corps Company 1743 was an African American company of the CCC, a program of the U.S. Army and the National Park Service which developed state and national parks nationwide. On June 4, 1934, the men and officers of the 1743rd set up camp and began a 5 year project to develop in Washington State Park. To this day, their craftsmanship can still be seen throughout the park.
How does knowing that Black people created the park impact your use of the park?
When I first learned of this history, I was immediately filled with pride and sadness. The pride came from having seen firsthand the masterful stonework and natural beauty in the park. But I also felt sadness because even though I was born and raised in St. Louis, I didn’t learn this history until I became an adult.
This experience has inspired me to tell these men’s stories. Last year, during my first year as an Outdoor Afro leader, I hosted four events in Washington State Park, sharing the history with each visit and encouraging hikers to take those stories home and teach someone else. In my second year as an Outdoor Afro Leader, I intend to continue to lift up this history through more events in this park.
Why is learning the black history of local parks important to you as an Outdoor Afro Leader?
I learn the Black History of my local green spaces in order to enhance the experiences of the folks who join Outdoor Afro St. Louis events. When we hike in a park, I want people to know that regardless of what may or may not be written on the trail placards, these lands are part of our heritage. Outdoor Afro’s mission to celebrate and inspire Black connections to nature. Learning and incorporating local Black history in our events is an important way that Outdoor Afro leaders further our organization’s mission.
What tips do you have for people who want to discover their local black history in their favorite park?
I think the most important tools are curiosity and your willingness to go deeper than the surface. There are times when a simple google search will open a whole new world, but it shouldn’t be the only resource. I encourage people to visit their local green spaces and study the trail placards- are their Black faces in photographs? If so, does the trail literature share their story?
It is also a good idea to speak to the park staff. They may have information that is not otherwise available. I also think it is important for African Americans to make sure their park management knows that African American visitors want their history reflected in park publications, programs and decisions about resources.
Finally, don’t forget your local public library!
What activities do you have planned for Washington State Park this year?
This year, Outdoor Afro St. Louis will hike, camp and canoe in Washington State Park. The first event will be a 6.5 mile history hike in June. We will do an up close examination of the stone buildings and walls built by the 1743rd CCC. Later in the summer, we’ll also do a I’m also planning a canoe trip down Big River. In the fall, we’ll do a group camping trip, and reflect on the 1743rd CCC in a shared meal around the fire.
What are your plans for plans for Earth Day 2016?
For Earth Day 2016, Outdoor Afro St. Louis will be practicing Leave No Trace principles during a camping in Meramec State Park.
Do you know the history of African American Stewardship in your region? Explore and share your research at #OutdoorAfro.
#FindYourPark, Find Your Path: A Journey of Self Discovery
Baltimore based Brittany Leavitt reflects on her first year as an #OutdoorAfro Leader and her deepening relationship with the National Parks
What were some your favorite activities that you lead in your first year as an Outdoor Afro leader?
My first year as an Outdoor Afro Leader was incredible. I was able to learn so much about myself and others. I have been lucky enough to be able to lead a few hikes, with the wonderful help of Outdoor Afro Washington DC Leaders. I have enjoyed all of the hikes that we have led, but my 2 favorite events we planned were; hiking trip up Old Rag Mountain and an REI sponsored event, learning to climb at Carder Rocks at the C/O canal on the Maryland side.
Old Rag is an 8 mile loop in the Shenandoah National Park. This was my first heavy hike with OA. We had 15 people join us and at least 5 were brand new to hiking. This was my first time leading, I remember how nervous I was about how would people respond to me. Overall the hike turned out to be an amazing experience for everyone. It was awesome to have so many wonderful people who; not only encourage each other, but had such fantastic spirits and positive vibes.
My second favorite trip was with our sponsor REI. We hosted a beginners rock climbing class at Carder Rocks. This was a great way to change up an outdoor experience. Instead of hanging out in a canoe or walking up a mountain. Rock climbing is also great way to practice trust and communication.
What is your favorite national park and why?
Shenandoah National Park is one of my favorite parks to visit. The first time I ever hiked was in the Blue Ridge Mountains. Its only 75 miles away for Washington DC and for someone like me who lives in the city, this is a great way to escape. I love the natural beauty of Shenandoah including the beautiful cascading waterfalls, vistas, and peaceful wooded hollows. Whether you are planning a family picnic or heading out for a nice back-country hike, this park is for everyone.
As an Outdoor Afro Leader, I've deepened my relationship with Shenandoah. For example, while trip planning, I found out some interesting Black history. The Jim Crow laws forced the park to create black-only visitor centers, campgrounds, and even picnic areas. Because of black leadership during the Civil rights Movement, the segregation in the park slowly faded away. The Byrd visitor center has a wonderful exhibition on the story of the segregation in the park.
Which national park is on your "bucket list" and why?
I have so many National Parks I would love to visit. From the Great Sand Dunes in Colorado to Denali in Alaska. In April at the annual Outdoor Afro Leadership Team Training. I will be crossing off one of my top National Parks, Yosemite. As an avid hiker, light climber, and nature photographer Yosemite is the place to be.
Who are some your outdoor leader role models and why?
Ansel Adams is one of my many inspiration when it come to nature photography. Another inspiration of mine is Chelsea Griffie. She is not only an outdoor enthusiasts but also amazing climber. She is the first African American women to climb El Capitain. She also works heavily to promote getting kids outdoors. Especially kids who may not have the accessibility to go camping or try an outdoor activity. This has become my major life goal to help reconnect people to nature.
What are some of activities that you look forward to leading in 2016?
I loved being a part of Outdoor Afro and the impact we are making. We are showing the country that nature is one of the ways we can express ourselves and heal.We are helping people step out of the comfort zone and explore their surroundings. Whether its leading hikes on mountains, or helping out your local city garden. We will always find away to reconnect.
Healing at Magnolia: An Evening with Outdoor Afro and the Slave Dwelling Project
On March 13-14, Outdoor Afro Charleston journeyed back in time to connect to the experience of enslaved Africans in America and to learn how they survived and endured by living off the land and close to the earth.
By Outdoor Afro Charleston Leader Porchia Moore
As the stars shined above us, our group gathered closer around the fire circle, building a warm community among each other. In the background we heard the gentle sounds of peacocks, crickets, and the restoring music of Sea Island Gullah spirituals. In these life affirming moments, we laughed, shared, and remembered our ancestors. And we experienced the beauty and power of connecting to nature and our history.
For the last two years, I had been wanting to participate in the Slave Dwelling Project, an organization who's mission is to identify and assist property owners, government agencies and organizations to preserve extant slave dwellings. As a former resident of Charleston County, I had avoided the plantations because I felt that experiencing the space as a tourist and viewing the land as a place of entertainment would not be nurturing to my soul. While the beauty of these green spaces always called me, I could never fully connect because the tourism paradigm was incongruent.
When Outdoor Afro Leader Adrienne Troy-Frazier, in collaboration with the Slave Dwelling Project, organized an evening program at the Magnolia Plantation and Gardens, I knew this was a unique opportunity for my family. It offered a counternarrative with an inclusive perspective which was wholly inclusive to the struggle of my ancestors life on these lands. While the beauty of these plantations is undeniable, I wanted to connect with the land in a way that allowed me to respect their lives and celebrate how their survival inherently connects with my modern day vibrancy and successes--because of them I can!
Our experience at the Magnolia included many important traditions including sharing a warm dinner feast with family and new friends.
In addition, Joseph McGill, organizer of the Slave Dwelling Project lead us in creating and discussing oral histories. Through re-enactment and narrative, McGill discussed the history of the land and the Africans who worked there. As the fire dimmed, we said our good nights and headed to the dwellings, understanding that the reflections shared that night would blanket us in our sleep.
The next morning, we woke up exhilarated by the natural beauty, including the lush green grasses and the bright pops of blooming flowers. Our group did a nature walk around the grounds, taking in the swamp water cypress, moss and alligator. We also saw all of the large nests in the trees of migrating egrets and herons. It was not lost on me that the the reason that I and my sons could enjoy this brilliant greenery and vibrant wildlife was because of the stewardship of our ancestors.
As Adrienne closed the program, we read the names and micro biographies of abolitionists and freedom fighters, many of whom, had a connection to the Magnolia Plantation. Having spent the night in very bare, small spaces, knowing that enslaved Africans had slept each night on bare wooden floors as they worked the land made me appreciate how far we have come and how brave and majestic it is to come from such a people.
I left this Outdoor Afro event proud to be black. Feeling both free, magical, inspired, and honored to be a people who survived and who, even in bondage, connected with the land with the purpose of survival using their indigenous knowledge and skill to sustain their lives under these conditions and carry us all onward. The healing aspects of this outing were immeasurable.
Photos by Adrienne Troy-Frazier
Now Presenting The 2016 Outdoor Afro Leadership Team!
Now Presenting The 2016 Outdoor Afro Leadership Team!
Sixty Leaders Will Create Relevant Outdoor Experiences in 26 States.
For the fifth year in a row, Outdoor Afro has recruited and selected enthusiastic volunteers from around the country to inspire black connections and leadership in nature. We are proud to be expanding to new cities including Boston, Denver, Miami, Las Vegas, Milwaukee, and Anchorage, AK
In April 2016, the Leadership Team will gather in Yosemite National Park to celebrate the National Park Service Centennial and in honor of the 150th Anniversary of the Buffalo Soliders' stewardship of the park.
Utilizing an experiential learning model, the team will learn skills vital to Outdoor Afro's national movement to increase Black engagement with nature. Workshops, including "Creating Community in the Outdoors" "African American Legacy of Stewardship and Conservation" and "Learning and Presenting on the Black History of Your Local Green Spaces," will be lead by senior Outdoor Afro leaders as well as African American park service staff.
Outdoor Afro is deeply grateful to our sponsors including REI, KEEN Footwear, Klean Kanteen, Sierra Club, and National Wildlife Federation – California.
Alaska
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| Kendra Johnson Anchorage, AK Winter and Summer Hiker, Canoer, Gardener |
Arizona
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| Angela Fears Phoenix, Az Yogi, Nature Photographer |
California
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| Vicki Allen Los Angeles, CA Swimmer, Mountain Lover |
Ivan Guillory Los Angeles, CA Hiker, Nutritionist, Cyclist |
Julius Hampton Oakland, CA Biker, Teacher, Yogi |
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| Zoë Polk San Francisco, CA Waterfall Enthusiast, Backpacker |
Monifa Porter Oakland, CA Forest Fan, Trail Runner |
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| Jole Simmons San Francisco, CA Hiker, Father, Nature Photographer |
Cliff Sorrell Hercules, CA Orienteerist, Family Hiker |
Nina Thiebert Oakland, CA Yogi, Biker, Musician |
Colorado
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| Kriste Peoples Denver, CO Hiker, Runner, Sunshine Enthusiast |
Roz Silva Boulder, CO Backerpacker, Hiker, Wilderness Therapist |
Connecticut
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| Absalom Massie New Haven, CT Hiker, Youth Motivator |
Florida
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| James Little Jacksonville, FL Scuba Diver, Kayaker, Sailor |
Ta-Shana Taylor Miami, FL Hiker, Geologist |
Hillary Van Dyke North Reddington Beach, FL Trail Runner |
Georgia
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| Tamara Johnson Athens, GA Ecologist, Campfire songstress |
Stefan Moss Marietta, GA Hiker, Fruit Forager, Environmental Scientist |
Tammy Shakur Atlanta, GA Dog lover, Trail Runner |
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| Wandi Steward Columbus, GA Swimmer, Kayaker, Mountain Biker |
Illinois
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| Valerie Morrow Oak Park, IL Canoer, Cross Country Skier, Hiker |
Chris Robinson Chicago, IL Hiker, Hammock Camper |
Viva Yeboah Chicago, IL Environmental Steward, Hiker, Bicylcist |
Indiana
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| Yolanda Crocker Bradley Gary, IN Beach Hiker, Yogi, Foodie |
Kentucky
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| Stevon Edwards Louisville, KY Zipliner, Adventure Traveler |
Alicia Hurle Louisville, KY Bicyclist, Hiker, Backpacker |
Maryland
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| Brittany Leavitt Baltimore, MD Climber, Backpacker, Nature Photographer, Yogi |
Melody Mckinley Baltimore, MD Fisherwoman, Sailor, Kite Flyer |
Massachusetts
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| Chaya Harris Boston, MA Camper, World Traveler |
Minnesota
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| Alora Jones Minneapolis, MN Camper, Local Park Explorer |
Greg Shuck St. Paul, MN Downhill Skier, Hiker |
Missouri
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| Mario Charles St. Louis, MO H iker, Musician, Camper |
Shakealia Finley Columbia, MO Camping Enthusiast |
Lekisha Hamilton St. Louis, MO Hiker, Cycler |
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| Duane Williams St. Louis, MO Camper, Percussionist |
Nevada
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| Toyya Mahoney Las Vegas, NV Hiker, Explorer, Kayaker |
New Jersey
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| Deb Smith Newark, NJ Nature Walker, Meditator, Stand Up Paddleboader |
Kelly Thomas Newark, NJ Musician, Camper |
New York
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| Katina Grays New York, NY Hiker, World Traveler |
Allison Guess New York, NY Stargazer, Storyteller, Geographer |
North Carolina
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| Beky Branagan Cary, NC Camper, Trail Runner, Quilter |
Christopher Clarke Durham, NC Fisherman, Hiker |
Ohio
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| Kimberly Smith-Woodford Cleveland, OH Nature Lover, Hiker |
Oregon
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| Pamela Slaughter Portland, OR Birder, Gardener, Community Organizer |
Pennsylvania
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| David McCullough Ardmore, PA Hiker, Science Educator |
South Carolina
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| Adrienne Troy Frazier Charleston, SC Kayaker, Nature Educator, Community Organizer |
Porchia Moore Columbia, SC Camper, Beach Comber, Cyclist, Poet |
Yanira Castro Fort Mill, SC Hiker, Ocean Lover, Foodie |
Tennessee
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| Lotez Thompson Nashville, TN Hiker, Yogi, Swimmer |
Texas
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| Tiara Chapman Dallas, TX Camper, Nature Educator |
Olatunde Gbolahan Austin, TX Backpacker, Fisherman, Beach Camper |
Starla Simmons Austin, TX Swimmer, Forest Lover, Gardener |
Virginia
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| Akisha Mackritis Woodbridge, VAHiker, Beach Explorer, Yogi |
Leah Young Fairfax, VAHiker, Photographer, Camper |
Washington
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| Alicia Highland Seattle, WA Hiker, Swimmer, Environmental Scientist |
Karmiah Knowles Snowboarder, Hiker, Runner Des Moines, WA |
Matt Reese Seattle, WA Snowboarder, Father, Nature Enthusiast |
Washington D.C.
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| Raymond Smith Washington, DC Backpacker, Snowboarder, Kayaker |
Charles Taylor Washington, DC Snowboarder, Hiker, Fitness Motivator |
Autumn Saxton Ross Washington, DC Local Park enthusiast, |
Wisconsin
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| Cheryl Mitchell Milwaukee, WI Hiker, Fisherwoman |
Nola Walker Madison, WI Tree Hugger, Hiker, Meditator |
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#SwimmingWhileBlack: Diving In
Inspired by Black History, Outdoor Afro Gary, Indiana Leader Yolanda Crocker-Bradley learns to swim and changes her relationship with her favorite local shoreline.
Why did you decide to take swim lessons?
For years, I had toyed with the thought of actually learning to swim. Considering that natural spaces that are in close proximity to water have always resonated with me deeply, it would seem that I should’ve learned sooner, but I didn’t.
After joining the Outdoor Afro leadership team last year, I felt called to take action. I learned so much about the history of Black people and swimming, and the disparities that exist regarding the likelihood of Black children learning to swim. It felt not only like a beneficial thing to do for myself, it felt like a personal responsibility.
Why didn't you learn to swim as a child?
As a youth, I wasn’t afforded the opportunity to learn to swim due to both financial barriers and also the lack of a usable pool at my high school. I think it is important to raise awareness and provide opportunities for youth from all backgrounds to have the opportunity to do so.
Why is it important to your children to see you taking swim lessons?
As a mother of 5, it is imperative that I lead by example and put action behind my hopes and aspirations. Learning to swim has been no different. For me, swimming represents not only a way to maintain my health, both physically and mentally, it also serves as a crucial life skill in the event of an unforeseen water related emergency. Being a competent swimmer can mean the difference between life or death. My hope is that my example will contribute to challenging and rewriting the false, but prevalent narrative that “Black people don’t swim.” I’m optimistic that my children, and my children’s children, will come to think of swimming as the norm, an activity that is a regular part of their lifestyles and summer fun. Long gone will be the days that they shy away from aquatic related activities based on not knowing how to swim, or being afraid of the water.
What physical and mental lessons are you learning from swimming?
My journey of learning to swim has been amazing, but not without challenges. I am learning in an environment where I am the only person of color and only one of two adult learners present. That can be a bit uncomfortable and intimidating. I’m pushed forward by this thought. If myself and others allow this to be a deterrent, this will forever be the case. So I push through, 40 years old, feeling both awkward in a swimsuit, and slightly ridiculous in a floatation device, wading in the water, head held high. (Unfortunately, in the context of swimming, high held heads are not beneficial, at least not in a literal sense.)
What existing strengths are helping you learn how to swim?
Coming from a background of running and hiking, I have benefitted from having lead a pretty active lifestyle. Still, learning to swim is challenging my body and mind in ways they hadn’t been previously. It's physically demanding, from top to bottom. Then, there’s that little issue of learning to breathe properly and submerge my head beneath water. It was all good when I was in the shallow end as a child, letting the water course through my toes and skipping stones along the surface. Swimming is a different beast altogether. I love it though. The water is strong, yet gentle- bringing up feelings of momentary anxiety, then calm. It’s the total experience.
What advice to you have for other people like you who want to swim?
For others considering learning to swim, especially Black women, seek out options that are available in your community, especially your local YMCA. If fear has been a factor, feel it and do it anyway. There are communities of people waiting to support and root you on. You won’t regret it. Plus, I am eagerly anticipating moving this indoor pool action to the open waters when the weather breaks, I want you to be ready to join me. More outdoor adventures await!