At the Catamount Trail Association, we recognize that access to the outdoors, and to skiing and snow sports, is not equitable. We condem racism and are devoted to creating a welcoming community for all persons, regardless of race, color, ancestry, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, disability, socioeconomic status, or ability.
We believe every person has a right to access and acceptance in the outdoors, and the CTA is committed to building an inclusive outdoor community by working to remove barriers and create opportunities that are available to everyone. We know that we cannot do this alone, and that more voices are needed to address the issues we are facing. As we work towards these goals there will be challenges and moments of discomfort, but we are committed to the pursuit of a more equitable future here in Vermont.
Current Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Efforts
- Centering DEI as a focus area for the CTA Board to provide guidance and support across the organization
- Engaging CTA staff and board members in training and ongoing discussions focused on DEI.
- Sustaining and enhancing Ski Cubs, the CTA’s community-based, free learn-to-ski program, which serves primarily BIPOC and New American youth, many of whom would not otherwise have had such opportunities.
- Expanding CTA school based youth learn to ski programs, which address equity and provide access to skiing for youth in rural Vermont.
- Broadening our hiring and recruitment efforts to reach a wider and more diverse pool of candidates and ensure inclusive hiring practices.
- Working across the conservation and outdoor business sectors in Vermont to learn about the DEI work of other organizations, helping to build a strong community of practice around DEI within these sectors, and to applying lessons learned from other organizations to our own programs, policies, and practices.
Outdoor CEO Diversity Pledge
The goal of the Outdoor CEO Diversity Pledge is to connect outdoor brands with inclusion advocates to advance representation of people of color across the outdoor industry.
By signing onto the Outdoor CEO Diversity Pledge the CTA is committing to hiring and supporting a diverse workforce, presenting representative marketing, and sharing our experiences with others.
Click here to view our partner page and to read our 2022 Pledge Report.
Worthwhile Reading
The Difference Between Allyship and Co-Opting Movements – Julia Schemmer
How the Effects of Historically Racist Laws Are Still Keeping BIPOC From the Outdoors – Erin Key
