America Outdoors Conference and Outfitter Expo to highlight Diversity and Inclusion Initiatives

November 16, 2023

Keynote speakers, roundtable discussions, and films focused on outdoor Inclusivity

November 16, 2023 – Knoxville, TN /OUTDOOR SPORTSWIRE/ – America Outdoors, the nation’s one-stop resource for outdoor recreation providers and industry leaders in public policy, is proud to highlight diversity and inclusion initiatives at the 2023 America Outdoors Conference and Outfitter Expo, taking place in Phoenix, Arizona on December 5-8.

“The America Outdoors team knows how transformational an immersive experience in the great outdoors can be,” says Aaron Bannon, Executive Director of America Outdoors. “We invite you to join us in this conversation as we seek to include everyone who has an interest in enriching their lives through the authentic experiences outdoor operators can provide.”

America Outdoors is thankful to the members of the Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (DEI) Task Force, with the mission to support outfitters, members, and organization leadership to learn and grow DEI practices and efforts. The Task Force works to facilitate opportunities for DEI education and resources to the AO membership community.

This year’s conference agenda features keynote speakers, roundtable discussions, and film screenings dedicated to continuing education on making the outdoors accessible to everyone. Highlights include:

• Pre-conference Workshop: Cultivating Spaces of Belonging in Outdoor Workplaces with Myra Strand
• Women & Non-binary Folks Roundtable
• Outdoor Films Screening with a focus on the experiences of BIPOC and women, which will include the films Rowing Sweep, Wood Hood, Paddle Tribal Waters, and Girls Gotta Eat Dirt.
• An Inclusive Journey Through America’s National Parks with keynote speaker Mikah Meyer
• Diversity & Inclusion Roundtable
• How to Create Diverse & Inclusive Content

The outdoor recreation industry is evolving to ensure that all people feel a sense of belonging, whether taking a trip or working for an outfitter,” said Hilary Wickes, America Outdoors Marketing & Events Manager. “The America Outdoors Conference sets the stage for this success.”

For more information on registration along with a full conference agenda, please visit this link or contact Marketing and Events Manager Hilary Wickes at hwickes@americaoutdoors.org. For press inquiries please reach Kade Gewanter at kadegewanter@darbycommunications.com.

About America Outdoors

America Outdoors is a community of outdoor adventure businesses and organizations who have joined together to promote and support the outdoor recreation industry through advocacy, education, and collaboration. AO has been working on behalf of the outdoor industry for over 30 years. For more information, please visit our website www.americaoutdoors.org.