RESEARCH by The University of Wales Trinity Saint David’s MA Outdoor Education graduate, Indy Wild, published in the Journal of Adventure Learning and Outdoor Education, examines the systemic barriers faced by LGBTQIA+ individuals, particularly trans and non-binary people, in accessing outdoor spaces. It highlights how community-led outdoor groups can foster greater inclusion, social justice, and environmental activism.
Historically, outdoor education has been shaped by dominant narratives of masculinity and heteronormativity. While increased attention has been given to women’s experiences, Indy’s research highlights a glaring gap in the literature addressing LGBTQIA+ engagement with outdoor spaces. Their study seeks to address this omission, offering a fresh perspective on how inclusive outdoor initiatives can transform the experiences of marginalised groups.
Indy said: “Publishing my research in a peer-reviewed journal is an incredible milestone. Outdoor education has long excluded perspectives like mine, and I hope my work can help shift the narrative towards greater inclusivity.”
Using a mixed-methods approach including questionnaires, semi-structured interviews, field notes, and social media analysis, Indy’s research provides critical insights into the experiences of LGBTQIA+ individuals in outdoor settings. The findings reveal:
- Systemic Barriers: LGBTQIA+ individuals, particularly trans and non-binary people, face significant challenges in accessing green and blue spaces. These barriers are further compounded for those who experience intersectional marginalisation, such as queer individuals who are also neurodivergent.
- Role of Community Groups: LGBTQIA+-specific outdoor activity groups play a vital role in reducing these barriers. These groups not only provide safe and welcoming spaces but also foster social connections, resilience, and a sense of belonging.
- Encouraging Environmental Activism: By creating inclusive communities, these outdoor groups inspire greater engagement with environmental activism, demonstrating that social justice and ecological well-being are deeply interconnected.
- Hope as a Protective Factor: The research underscores the significance of hope in marginalised communities. By building inclusive outdoor communities, individuals gain a sense of empowerment and optimism, both essential for mental health and community resilience.
Indy said: “My findings revealed that outdoor groups not only remove barriers but also significantly impact participants’ lives. These groups create a sense of community, drive environmental activism, and offer hope, something crucial for those facing societal exclusion.”
The publication of Indy’s research is more than an academic achievement. It is a call for action. The findings advocate for policy changes in outdoor education and recreation, urging institutions and policymakers to adopt inclusive practices that support LGBTQIA+ individuals and other marginalised groups.
Indy continued: “This paper has the potential to drive positive change in policies and procedures. Considering the climate crisis and rising transphobia, ensuring inclusive access to outdoor spaces is more important than ever.
“Small changes add up, and collectively, we can create a more inclusive and just world.”
UWTSD’s Adventure Education lecturer Mache Treviño said: “I started working with Indy as their MA Dissertation Supervisor, a process I joined in the last stage of the research and publication.
“As alumni, Indigo has kindly joined as Guest Lecturer in our programme – I am consistently impressed with their deep insight, commitment to quality research and drive towards expanding our area of knowledge as Outdoor Education practitioners.
“I am honoured to join this path and am keen on following their trajectory, as it promises to play a vital role in pushing for the transformation of the outdoors.”
Since completing their MA at UWTSD, Indy has actively championed inclusive outdoor learning. They run a Forest School training company in Hampshire, where Indy integrates their research findings into training programmes that promote diversity and accessibility. Indy has also developed courses on trans inclusion in outdoor education and continues to support LGBTQIA+ engagement with nature.
Indy is applying for PhD scholarships to further their research into intersectionality and outdoor access, particularly focusing on blue spaces such as rivers and lakes, an area that has received even less academic attention.
Indy concluded: “I hope this research sparks further studies on the intersection of identity and nature. The outdoors should be for everyone, and through continued research and advocacy, we can work toward a more equitable and welcoming outdoor culture.”
To read Indy’s full article, click here: Queering adventure: building communities outdoors to combat social and environmental injustice
For more information about UWTSD’s MA Outdoor Education course, please visit: Outdoor Education (Part-time) | University of Wales Trinity Saint David
