WHO ARE WE?

We are a nonprofit organization created for BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, People of Color) climbers by BIPOC climbers. Our goal is to Increase accessibility of outdoor spaces, outdoor related education and recreation for BIPOC adults and youths, while cultivating outlets for community, representation, and growth.  

Why, you ask?

The short answer is, because the outdoors is for everyone. The long answer is BIPOC communities have been historically excluded from access to and the narrative of nature with detrimental effects. This exclusion was purposeful and the negative effects are wide reaching for BIPOC and non-BIPOC communities. We believe in the importance of connecting to the land. We also believe in the beneficial effects climbing can have on a person’s life. Climbing teaches you to trust yourself and others, to believe in your own personal power and to try hard even when success feels impossible. Climbing is about health and wellness. Climbing is about problem solving and experimentation. In short, climbing is a wellspring for personal growth and development, both physical and mental.

Climbing and having the resources to connect with nature is intimately connected to privilege; gear is expensive, gym memberships, travel to outdoor locations cost in time and money, and let’s not forget how intimidating these spaces can be. On top of those things, when a BIPOC human walks into a gym space, nature or even on a hiking trail, the chances of them seeing other folks that look them are slim. Our goals are justice, equity and inclusion. We are working to expand the culture of the outdoor industry, to change the narrative to one that intentionally includes everyone and to empower organizations to correct its shortcomings. The task is big but the job is fruitful.

What can you do to help? Check out our “Get Involved” link and drop us line, check out our “Schedule” link and come hang out, click on donate and support!.

History

In 2017 TBA’s founders, Summer Winston and Darrick Brody went to the first Color the Crag event. It was the first of its kind, weekend long outdoor rock climbing festival created specifically for the BIPOC community. Imagine 150 Black and Brown folks from all across the country; climbing, learning, hiking, and being free together. It was beautiful and unlike anything either Summer or Darrick had experienced before.

On the last day of the festival, on their bus ride the airport, Summer turned to Darrick and said “I want to bring this feeling back home with us. I want others to know what it’s like to feel this seen and supported. Let’s start a group.” Less then a week after they returned to California, Summer picked a name, designed a logo and started an Instagram page. Fast forward to today, TBA has hosted 45+ community climbing events across 3 states and 6 cities, grew from a team of 2 to 10, achieved 501(c) 3 status, and have worked with many organizations to facilitate access to climbing and the outdoors.

We are growing and so are our visions for community action and change. The work of JEDI (Justice, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion) is a tough journey and we are in it for the long-haul.