Trip report:
The Bronze Chapter celebrated a second year at Daroga State Park, a breathtaking space situated along the shoreline of the Columbia River in Eastern Washington. In July 2021, two 5-day campouts were offered resulting in more than 100 campers of color representing all skill levels celebrated being under the stars together. This is where and when The Bronze Chapter got its name.
Sunsets are phenomenal, the Columbia River is refreshing, and it’s an awesome place to celebrate Black and Brown Joy. More youth than ever brought their energy and vibe to the campground and we produced one new Junior Ranger. Community learned to camp, experimented with and improved their camping systems, played games, participated in a Ranger-led knot tying class and also story from Youth Services Coordinator and Colville Tribe member Jason Wellons. Importantly, this campout also provided Community a safe space to Rest — Black people are dying from sleep deprivation and our resistance to rest is a social justice and public health issue. These skill-building and BIPOC outdoor Community building campouts are extremely important.
Being approximately halfway between Lake Chelan to the north and Wenatchee to the south, Daroga is a also convenient jumping-off point for campers to hike, bike ride, and engage in tourism through scenic drives, wine tasting, and antique hunting.
Participant Praise:
“Community. This trip made me realize how community isn’t necessarily a place, more of the people that surround you. The people that are there for you.”
“I valued having a space where my child can be in an outdoor setting with people who look like them.”
“Bonding. Many races of bronze color have many cultural experiences that can be shared.”
Gratitude to Justice Outside. Washington State Parks & Recreation Commission. Ranger Spencer Wordell. Ranger Andrew Branscum. Ranger Dennis Lotts. You supported Black, Indigenous, and Communities of Color in the movement towards a more racially-just outdoors.
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