The Majestic Canyon
The Grand Canyon, one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, holds deep significance not only as a natural marvel but also as a symbol of unity among all people. Yet, despite the allure of this iconic destination, African Americans and other communities of color remain underrepresented in national parks. This is something that the Diverse Environmental Leaders Speakers Bureau (DELNSB) set out to address on a transformative trip to the Grand Canyon from October 12-14, 2024.
Their mission was to raise awareness about national parks and encourage more people of color to engage with these vital public spaces.
The National Park System, spanning over 85 million acres of land, is a shared legacy of all Americans, yet only a small percentage of people of color visit these natural wonders. National parks play a critical role in preserving wildlife, stabilizing climate, and connecting visitors to history and culture.
Nevertheless, despite being cornerstones in many communities, shrinking funding threatens their future. That’s why now, more than ever, it's crucial for all Americans, especially underrepresented groups, to get involved.
Why More People of Color Should Be Involved in National Parks
Historically, national parks have not reflected the diversity of the nation they serve. Today, people of color represent less than 23% of visitors to national parks, despite making up over 40% of the U.S. population.
This gap isn't just about representation; it’s about missing out on the unique recreational, cultural, and mental health benefits that parks provide. From outdoor recreation to educational opportunities about natural history, national parks offer a wealth of experiences that everyone deserves access to.
Moreover, involving more people of color in these spaces can inspire a greater sense of environmental stewardship and advocacy. As communities become more engaged with these natural treasures, they are more likely to champion for their preservation and demand more equitable resources.
However, budget cuts to the National Park Service have led to reduced staffing, closed facilities, and scaled-back programs, making advocacy more urgent than ever.
Introducing Geotechture's New Advocacy Tool: "Advocasee"
In this vein of amplifying voices and engagement, Geotechture is proud to announce the launch of its newest branch: Advocasee.
This innovative initiative uses immersive technology to enhance situational awareness around advocacy issues. Whether it's environmental justice, climate action, or social movements, Advocasee offers immersive tours and virtual experiences that allow advocates and the public to witness the impact of issues firsthand.
Equipped with stunning views, informational points, background audio, VR compatibility, gyroscope motion activation and more features, the Advocasee tool will bring an experience like no other.
Immersive technology is a game-changer for advocacy. By offering 360-degree virtual tours, Advocasee helps people experience the world’s most pressing issues as if they were there. For example, those unable to visit the Grand Canyon physically can still explore its grandeur and learn about the challenges it faces through Advocasee’s immersive experiences.
The Grand Canyon Advocasee Tool Brought My Mom To Tears...
I was able to witness the power of this tool first hand as I shared the Grand Canyon Immersive tour with my mom, Darlinda Combs. As a woman of color who is also disabled, she has never been to the Grand Canyon. She mentioned that she believed that pictures that she had seen were "doctored up," to show the amazing color presented.
While exploring the immersive tour, she was able to witness a few of the amazing spots the group of explorers visited. She also was able to navigate to informational points and submerge herself in the views.
As I watched her explore the space, she began to tear up at the beauty. This further demonstrates the power that this tool has and the potential to bring new perspectives to enthusiasts, first-timers and decision makers.
Immersive Tours as a Powerful Advocacy Tool
Why are immersive tours so effective for advocacy? Because they have the unique ability to emotionally connect users with causes. When someone can virtually stand at the edge of the Grand Canyon and see firsthand the effects of climate change, budget cuts, or shrinking biodiversity, the abstract becomes real. This kind of engagement isn’t just powerful—it’s transformative.
For advocates, immersive tours are a way to break down barriers and bring new voices into the conversation. Through Advocasee, influencers can share these experiences with their followers, dramatically expanding the reach of advocacy campaigns.
With immersive tools, stories of conservation and environmental justice are more impactful and relatable to a broader, more diverse audience.
Join the Grand Canyon Experience
To see this technology in action, you can experience the Grand Canyon from the comfort of your own home through DELNSB’s immersive tour. This unique tour highlights not only the stunning beauty of the canyon but also the importance of advocating for national parks and increasing diversity in outdoor spaces.
Dive into the awe-inspiring views and catch a glimpse of our experience at this natural treasures by visiting the Grand Canyon DELNSB immersive tour at Geotechture Grand Canyon Immersive Tour.
Let’s come together to ensure that our national parks remain a shared legacy for all. Through immersive experiences and increased advocacy, we can inspire future generations to cherish and protect these spaces. Together, we can make a difference.
Learn more about the DELNSB
Want to learn more or want to support the Diverse Environmental Leaders Speakers Bureau?
Contact legendary advocate and co-founder, Audrey Peterman at Audrey@audreypeterman.com
IG: @diverseenvironmentalleaders
FB: Diverse Environmental Leaders National Speakers Bureau
Thanks to our Partners and Supporters!
Beacon Partner: National Wildlife Federation, Environmental Justice Program (logo)
National Parks Conservation Association (logo)
Edaren Foundation
Robert G. Stanton
Supporters
Majora Carter and Associates
West Atlanta Watershed Alliance
Keeping It Wild, Atlanta
Kenn and Kimberly Kaufmann
Beverley and Norris Barr
Monica Melton
Lilieth and Ayton Taylor
Lisa and Ethan Suber
Ingrid DuLac Tower
Bethany Powell
Dr. Carolyn Finney
Sasha Bookman
Kate Cell
Rosie Gordon-Wallace
Bobby Henry & The Westside Gazette
Transformational Tour Participants
Audrey & Frank Peterman
Dr. Na’Taki Osborne-Jelks
Dr. Alyssa Combs
David Miller
David Wilson
Sia Chandler
Caitlyn Smith
Charmaine Davis
Yero Winborne
Damita Holbrook
Andre Lambertson
#denver #cali #grandcanyon #losangelos #massachusetts #nationalparks #newyork #conservation #environmentalist #travel