Minnesota DNR aims to increase diversity in state parks.
The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (MDNR) Commits to Increasing Diversity in State Parks
The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (MDNR) is taking steps to ensure that their state parks are more inclusive and welcoming to non-white visitors. This renewed commitment to diversity comes after the release of the 2022 State Park Visitor Study, which highlighted the need for greater inclusivity. According to the study, only 11 percent of visitors were non-white, indicating that there is still work to be done.
MDNR Parks and Trails Director Ann Pierce stated, “The visitor study shows that Minnesota DNR is making progress toward our goal of inclusivity, though there’s still more work to do. We will continue our efforts to expand access to public lands for traditionally underserved communities and to welcome new visitors to outdoor recreation in state parks.”
Increasing Non-White Visitors
The study revealed that the percentage of non-white visitors to state parks increased from five percent in 2017 to 11 percent in the past year. However, it’s important to note that the survey’s demographic representation may not be entirely accurate, as participation was voluntary. MDNR collected data from 2,000 interviews conducted last summer.
The study categorized participants into two groups: white and BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, or People of Color). This classification included individuals who identified as biracial or multiracial, as well as those who identified as American Indian, Alaska Native, Asian or Asian American, Black, African American, Hispanic, Latino, Middle Eastern, North African, Native Hawaiian, or Pacific Islander.
According to the study, state park visitors were predominantly white, with higher incomes and education levels compared to the overall Minnesota population. The study also highlighted visitors’ desire for more Indigenous history and voices in park programming, as well as concerns about potential microaggressions and the lack of diversity during their visits.
Prior Recommendations and Partnerships
This latest study aligns with previous recommendations made by MDNR to prioritize diversity. In 2020, the Minnesota Outdoor Recreation Task Force was established, and in 2021, they issued final recommendations urging MDNR to focus on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). The task force emphasized the economic benefits of diversity and highlighted the impact of racial disparities on the state’s GDP.
MDNR has also taken proactive steps to promote DEI on public lands and waters. They launched a social media campaign in partnership with Share the Mic MN, an activist campaign that emerged after the death of George Floyd. This campaign allowed black and brown women to share their stories and experiences in the outdoors.
Shout out to Jasmine at @sharethemicmn — excited to partner with you for #MyMNOutdoorAdventure! Tell YOUR story of diversity outdoors at https://t.co/pHqSRBcO6Q pic.twitter.com/wGxWRjm8py
— Minnesota DNR (@mndnr) May 14, 2021
Additionally, MDNR co-manages the Increasing Diversity in Environmental Careers program, which aims to provide opportunities for women, BIPOC, and disabled individuals. This program is a collaboration between MDNR, Conservation Corps Minnesota and Iowa, Minnesota Pollution Control Agency, and Minnesota Board of Water and Soil Resources.
Continuing the Journey Towards Parity
While MDNR is encouraged by the increase in non-white visitors to state parks, they acknowledge that there is still work to be done. The demographic makeup of state park visitors should ideally reflect the population demographics of Minnesota. According to the Census Bureau, the benchmark for racial parity would be at or above 23.4 percent non-white visitors.
Gratia Joice, the principal planner for MDNR Parks and Trails, expressed optimism about the progress made but emphasized the need for further efforts, stating, “While it is an improvement, there’s still work to be done.”
MDNR’s commitment to diversity and inclusivity in state parks is an ongoing journey, and they will continue to prioritize expanding access and welcoming visitors from all backgrounds to enjoy the beauty of Minnesota’s outdoor spaces.
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