Texas Children In Nature want everyone to learn, explore, and connect with nature. To do that we need the environmental field and nature-focused organizations to be more inclusive, diverse, and representative of all communities. Join youth leaders from the Austin Parks and Recreation Department Park Ranger Cadet Program to discuss the intersections of racial equity, connecting to the outdoors, and outdoor careers. For the first half of the session, they will share the work they’ve been doing in Austin to address racial equity by building a green career pipeline for young leaders. In the second half youth leaders and attendees will dive into discussion topics such as barriers to connecting with nature, why they focus on race, the importance of knowing the history of an area, being a white ally, guidance for having tough conversations & curricular resources, eco-therapy in relation to this work, building partnerships, peer mentorship model, youth leadership development, the importance of elevating youth voices, and creating pathways to employment. Come to the session ready to share stories, successes, challenges, and questions! Texas Children In Nature hope to have open and honest conversations, share strategies and resources, and strengthen our network of people doing this work,. Together, we can work towards a Texas where nature and outdoor careers are more accessible for people who have been historically excluded.
