At Earthroots Field School we believe that nature connection is a public health issue. As such, we created the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Council to better understand, broaden and serve the Earthroots community.
We recognize Black, Indigenous, People of Color, individuals with disabilities, LBGTQ+ are underrepresented in the outdoors. Earthroots can help change that. Our Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Council has been working hard to align Earthroots with this value. With the help of community volunteers, we hope to connect people to nature no matter what barrier.
The Council conducted an internal audit, and also reached out to our community for feedback. Our DEI Council consists of dedicated individuals continuing to assess, guide and raise funds to ensure our organization represents and includes people of all backgrounds.
Our equity work includes:
- Modifying our hiring practices to be more inclusive
- Conducting an internal audit of the organization via survey sent to current, past and potential participants
- Offering BIPOC Scholarships to lift and strengthen the voices of Black, Indigenous, and People of Color
- Creating our Nature is for Everyone Campaign providing programs and raising funds supporting nature connection education in historically excluded communities
- Offering grant funded Ecoliteracy Programs in Title 1 Public Schools
- Increasing engagement with the local Tongva and Acjachemen tribes
- Acknowledging indigenous ancestral land during programs, on Earthroots website, and social media
- Acquiring additional funding through grants, donations, fundraisers to fund DEI efforts
- Providing DEI training for staff and board members
- Creating an online curriculum platform to help children with limited access to natural spaces learn and connect with nature
- Hiring a DEI consulting group to help guide our organization through becoming more diverse, equitable, and inclusive
“After struggling to find friends that understand traditional cultural lifestyle, this year [our son] was able to meet some new friends that are also people of color through Earthroots that also practice the traditional ways of their culture.”
– Earthroots Homeschool Scholarship Recipient
What’s Next?
In 2023, our DEI Council will be engaging the community in conversations to amplify the experiences of BIPOC community members. By broadening our understanding through shared experiences, combined with reflection, Earthroots intends to weave the insights gained into our Earthroots practices. If you would like to make a recommendation for a community member to be highlighted in these conversations, please let us know. We are looking for someone whose life story would give insights to the diversity of Orange County with relation to nature connection. [email protected]
We are dedicated to providing a welcoming, inclusive place for people of all abilities, backgrounds, and walks of life.
Earthroots DEI Council