Opinion: The outdoor industry still can’t get DEI right
After more than a year of racial upset and diversity work, our industry still has a long way to go.
Author
James Edward Mills
James Edward Mills is a freelance journalist who specializes in telling stories about outdoor recreation, environmental conservation, acts of charitable giving, and practices of sustainable living. He has worked in the outdoor industry since 1989 as a guide, outfitter, independent sales representative, writer, and photographer. He is the author of the new book “The Adventure Gap: Changing the Face of the Outdoors” and the co-writer/co-producer of the documentary film An American Ascent. James is based in Madison, Wisconsin where he has written for the Wisconsin State Journal, Madison Magazine, and Wisconsin Trails. He is currently a contributor to several outdoor-focused print and online publications such as National Geographic Adventure, Rock & Ice, Alpinist, SUP, Elevation Outdoors, Women’s Adventure, the Clymb.com, Park Advocate, High Country News, Land & People, Outside Magazine, The Guardian and SNEWS.
My Stories
The first all-Black American expedition of Everest is officially underway
The historic expedition was announced at Outdoor Retailer's summer show in Denver this month.
Opinion: Built on smoke
A 31-year veteran of the outdoor industry offers a personal history of race relations in the action sports business and considers whether current activism is setting the stage for lasting change.
The challenges of inclusivity: Representation, not tokenism
True inclusivity takes movement on both sides: people of color developing their leadership skills and outdoor brands giving them the runway.
A new beginning for DEI in outdoors
In what many hope is a new chapter for diversity, equity, and inclusion in the outdoor industry, four leading organizations unite with a public statement and commitment to do better.
No Pain, No Change
On the way toward a more diverse outdoor community, mistakes will be made. But one 30-year veteran of the industry sees progress where others see only problems
Teresa Baker releases statement about forgiving Camber Outdoors
The DEI activist writes how we all play a role in bettering the outdoor industry, following mistakes made by the Boulder-based organization.
Moving forward in the wake of the Camber Outdoors debacle
Where do we go from here on the journey toward DEI in the outdoor industry?
Deanne Buck resigns from Camber Outdoors and Diana Seung steps in
The organization says the leadership transition had been in the works since June, but that recent controversy fast-tracked the process.
Camber CEO Outdoor Equity Pledge sparks major backlash
The Pledge, announced to a packed house at Outdoor Retailer Snow Show, was intended to bring the industry together, but ignited a wave of skepticism and criticism instead.