It is important it is not only to create opportunities for BIWOC skiers to participate, but to create safe and welcoming spaces so they feel empowered to return to the mountains. A big part of that is creating change at the resort level, and providing a space that is safe for BIWOC skiers. Many resorts talk about their commitment to justice and equity in snowsports…

Among her many goals is increasing diversity in a sport dominated by white athletes. She has reached out to EDGE Outdoors, a Washington state non-profit that provides scholarships to cultivate women of color in snow sports, about possibly starting a Utah chapter…

This week, in honor of Black History Month, we are highlighting an individual who wants to share her passion and love for the sport with other people of color. Meet Annette Diggs! Diggs, a Stevens Pass ski instructor, has been on a journey to change and address the lack of diversity and break down barriers to the outdoors for people of color…

EDGE Outdoors is program one local woman created to give women of color more access to outdoor sports…

The path from ski lessons to ski instructor, one she followed in her own journey, there are benefits that become available to help make continued access more sustainable. She says the goal is that by “that third year of being in the EDGE initiative, we’re hoping that they will take a position on the mountain.” These positions can come with access and benefits…

It’s not about just giving them the opportunity to try skiing or snowboarding once. EDGE is a multifaceted program where BIWOC are provided mountain access, gear, and multi-week lessons from certified PSIA/AASI BIPOC instructors. So many BIPOC have endured harmful experiences on the hill and never come back, which is what I’m trying to counter…

Elevating organizations already doing the work is one way. This starts by taking genuine steps to establish respect, under-standing, and value. Many BIPOC-led snowsports organizations have been teaching for decades with amazing BIPOC instructors; however, most of these instructors lack PSIA-AASI certification. By investing in these organizations, the industry is uplift-ing and developing historically excluded communities and increasing the presence of dedicated BIPOC PSIA-AASI-certified instructors within the industry...