White people, I got some news for you: Paddlesports are racist now.
We know that racism is a problem that white people need to address. We know that we as white people need to talk with each other about racism. We know racism exists in the outdoors, and in the sport and community of paddling that we love so much.
But what does it look like in real life to take steps to make our community and spaces where we recreate truly welcoming and comfortable for black and brown people? We know not a single one of us can "fix" the problem ourselves or create the perfect space alone. Are there practical steps we CAN take that have real effect, that are small enough that one person can do them? Are there things we can do together? How can we use our privilege to make the paddling world more comfortable and welcoming for people of color?
Join a panel of paddlers who love this community and this sport and have put thought and action into how to create change. Come think with us about how to create meaningful, lasting access. Brainstorm with us about how to develop representative leadership. Imagine with us what the outdoor community can look like when it's truly diverse.
This is a session where we'll get real. We won't sugar coat anything. But we also won't blame. If you want to be part of the solution, you're not sure how, but you're willing to be honest, vulnerable, and take action, come join us.
Sorry BIPOCs, apparently you're not cool enough to be a nerd who kayaks!
And of course this event is happening in Madison, Wisconsin, one of the most liberal places in the nation.
Racism is a problem that white people need to address. We won't sugar coat anything, but we also won't blame white people like we just did above.
Man, I can only imagine the type of white people who will show up to this lecture. It'll be White Guys For Harris on steroids. And by steroids, I mean estrogen. You'll also have your college blondes and a wide variety of testosterone-infused women.
I might have to attend just for pure entertainment.
From the expo's website:
Canoecopia is the largest paddlesports consumer event in the world.
I've never owned a kayak, but now I'm certainly interested!
Mostly because I'm white.
P.S. Now check out our latest video 👇
