The modules in this course are intended to provide viewers with some foundational knowledge on topics related to diversity, equity and inclusion with a specific lens on how these concepts come to life in the outdoor industry. Our hope is that the course will inspire conversation, propel change, and enable cultures where more people can feel like they belong.
REI is thrilled to be partnering with Crux Academy to deliver open education on critical diversity, equity and inclusion topics. Our partnership was bred over a shared love of the outdoors, and we believe that through nuanced content, we can equip others within the outdoor industry to push for progress.
Why does this work matter and why did we build this series. Plus, get to know your instructors and their personal stories!
In this module we cover some foundational knowledge and define some terms as they will be used throughout the series. We introduce/review topics such as stereotypes, discrimination, equality, and equity. Our thought leaders are Eliot Jackson and Nina Williams, with help from Annie Kao, Wyn Wiley (Pattie Gonia), and Cody Kaemmerlen.
Annie Kao shares how bias stems from mental shortcuts in our beliefs and thought patterns that are deeply ingrained in us by our surroundings, social systems and upbringing. We start with some examination of the brain activity when our biases are triggered, and then explore how it shows up in our daily lives, including work and the outdoors. As with each module, we examine some real life examples and leave with some calls to action.
Wyn Wiley (Pattie Gonia) helps us examine the differences between science and social constructs of sex, gender, gender identity, and gender expression. We take a deep, and sometime personal dive into this thoughtful examination of complex human genetics and humanity. Wyn's approach is part trail guide and part learner, ensuring that this oftentimes difficult space of being an adult learner feels safe and informative.
Cody Kaemmerlen, with the help of Eliot Jackson, guides us through the history of race and its often unexamined origins as a human construct. From the development of race by 18th century Europeans to its presence in the founding of our nation; we reveal that race, while having no basis in science, has become a driving force in our daily lives and interactions in/with the outdoors.
Browse all the links and downloads mentioned in the course. If you would like us to include any other resource, please let us know by contacting us here.