Nature engagement provides physical, psychological, and social benefits; however, access to and use of local nature sites, parks, and greenspaces is not always equitable, particularly for communities of color. These impacted neighborhoods typically have fewer street trees planted, are further from parks and other green spaces, and when parks are nearby, they tend to have poorer equipment that is less well maintained.
Results from a targeted study reveal a complex matrix of external, socioeconomic, and psychological factors that impact nature engagement by youth of color (YOC). Findings expose larger implications for a call to racial and ethnic diversity, equity, and inclusion within nature engagement.
This discussion will feature the findings of this research from Dr. Rakow and colleagues, as well as highlight the local implications of these barriers.
The event will be hosted in partnership with Trees Atlanta at the Atlanta Botanical Garden.
The lecture is free and open to the public in Day Hall. No registration is required. This program will be live streamed on the Garden’s Facebook. For any questions or concerns about the program, attendees are encouraged to contact classes@atlantabg.org.
The Philip and Elkin Alston Lecture Series is made possible by generous support from the estate of Elkin Goddard Alston.
