(Image by Ife Akinroyeje)

In line with the Ramblers commitment to being an anti-racist organisation we invited writers to share their experience and views relating to rural racism, to help broaden our understanding of this complex issue.  

 

Jo’s perspective 

I’m an anti-oppression training consultant educating people about rural inequities, including rural racism. For this piece, however, I will share my experiences as a person of colour who loves the outdoors.  

 

Falling in love with the outdoors 

Despite having the privilege of access to green spaces growing up, I didn’t see myself belonging there. I didn’t consider myself an ‘outdoors person’ until recently. Two years ago, I found Wanderers of Colour, a volunteer-run, grassroots organisation dedicated to increasing access and reducing barriers to the outdoors for Black people and people of colour (BPOC). They have an amazing track record of hosting outdoor activities by and for people of colour, all infused with a sense of belonging, joy, adventure and camaraderie I haven’t encountered anywhere else. Through Wanderers, I’ve fallen in love with the outdoors. I’ve helped organise trips to the Peak District and Dorset, hiking, climbing and kayaking to get closer to nature.  

 

Experiences of racism 

As a group of BPOC, in rural settings we do get stares, but we feel safe in our numbers and the vast majority of people we encounter are friendly. However, I’m sad to say that I have yet to be on a Wanderers weekend away where there hasn’t been some form of overt racism, usually directed towards a dark-skinned Black person. When I’ve shared these stories with white people, they are shocked. It’s not a shock to us. This is why groups like Wanderers of Colour exist. We know how to be there for each other when this happens; we’ve cultivated a culture of mutual support.  

 

Be an ally 

I would ask allies of BPOC to intervene at the first sign of prejudice, challenge biased assumptions and advocate for a more inclusive countryside. Foster understanding about rural racism in your circles. If you see a BPOC group and your friend makes negative comments, talk it out before their biases turn into harmful behaviours. You can transform the narrative, replacing fear and suspicion with empathy and understanding.  

Showing your support for groups like Wanderers of Colour helps us to keep doing what we’re doing. Educating others about the realities of rural racism is not merely an act of solidarity; it’s a vital step towards reclaiming these spaces as sanctuaries for all.