The Way Home: Returning to the National Parks
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“You shouldn’t have to convince people to go to paradise,”
–Shelton Johnson, Ranger, Yosemite National Park
Although our national parks belong to all Americans, it’s a sad fact that very few people of color ever set foot in some of our country’s most beautiful places. Take a journey to Yosemite National Park with the Amazing Grace 50+ Club, a Los Angeles-based senior church group whose members are looking to reverse that trend.
Click to learn more about efforts to bring more diverse visitors to the parks
I had the fortunate opportunity last year and will this year also to work in Denali Nat. Pk, Alaska and in the 4 months I was there I think I saw no more than maybe 10-15 blacks. I thinks it’s a matter of education and MONEY as it is very expensive to travel to and stay anywhere in Alaska, but oh my what a fantastically beautiful place to visit.
While I was there, I had the pleasure to meet and atttend a seminar that sponsered park ranger Shelton Johnson on this very topic.
The expression of the African American woman at the start of the video made me teary-eyed. It really showed that she was amazed with what she was seeing. Thanks for sharing such a heartwarming video!