RESOURCE-based recreation
OUTCHEA: Expanded Access in the Florida Wilding is a developing community project that actively considers the historical, legislative, and social impediments to equitable resource-based recreation. In addition to the published research addressing epigenetics and trauma, I asked my father, also an Alachua County native, when he first went to the beach. Even with the nearly 200 public beaches and over 1,200 miles of Florida coastline, he shared that he was 25 years old. I was taken aback until I realized that both he and my mother lived in Gainesville during Jim Crow Segregation. As he matter-of-factly, emphasized, “Where would we go? We couldn’t even check out books from the public library.” My mother, who died in 2011, recalled her restrictive high school experiences, marveling at my embrace of extracurricular activities.
Considering these lived experiences, outside of textbook documentation, I compare this with reports from the CDC stating that, “drowning death rates for Black people are 1.5 times higher than the rates for White people. Disparities are highest among Black children ages 5-9 (rates 2.6 times higher) and ages 10-14 (rates 3.6 times higher). In swimming pools, Black children ages 10-14 years drown at rates 7.6 times higher than White children.” This, coupled with an array of research highlighting the quantifiable effects of the natural environment on positive mental health and physical well-being, compels an approach that pairs the exploration of our natural Florida Landscape with established cultural practices, specific to the Black American community.*
I believe that opportunities for intergenerational resource-based recreation rely on a commitment to repeated exposure, creative expression, archival documentation, and radical invitation. The expansion of an evolving three-part series follows below.
(((DEVELOPING)))
ROUGHAGE + RATCHET | Harvest and Outdoor Watch Party
Held in partnership with local urban farms, this event is designed to uncouple produce from the boundaries of grocery retail and (re)introduce its earthbound origins. The harvest is scheduled for two hours before sundown, after which a film screening initiates, paired with a game of GOOD | BAD | BLACK | MOVIE | BINGO. Reusable bags are provided to store harvested vegetables (and fruits?). A popcorn bar is also available, along with complimentary beverages.
TRAIL + TRAP | Hiking and Social Dance Soiree
Social dance (and line dancing, in particular), offers a platform for dynamic interactions. The Electric Slide, for example, is often performed by intergenerational groups at milestone celebrations, and casual gatherings. In this instance, it is an embodied dialogue that serves as the destination for a nature trail. Approximately 2.5 hours before sundown a group will embark on an approximately 30-minute hike/walk. The trail selected should end in a clearing where participants will discover snacks, and hydrating beverages, a (portable) dance floor, along with a PA system, lighting, and DJ -- using a playlist dominated by line dance classics including Before I Let Go, Cupid Shuffle, Flex, Can’t Get Enough, etc. At sundown, guests will be provided a swag bag, insect repellant, an insulated water bottle, a compact first aid kit, and personal illumination (headlamp/flashlight) for the return trail.
DOCK + DRIP | Canoe/ Kayak Tour and Fashion Show
Launching November through March, participants will be invited on a canoe/kayak tour to witness manatee activity during these colder months. In the weeks before the event, water safety classes, and customized life vests will made available in preparation for a dockside fashion show. Food and beverages will be provided.
Suggested budget line items:
Administrative Materials + Labor
Transportation + Parking
Craft Services
Supplemental Materials (i.e. portable seating, equipment rentals, etc.)
Safety Personel
Photo Documentation / Videography
Creaative / Educational Personel
Marketing (Publicity, Advertising, Merch, etc.)
MISC.
7% Contingency
*Please note: While these activities are not restrictive to race, gender, or ethnic identity, they are directly informed by established cultural mores of Black Americans. This includes but is not limited to, musical forms/genres, dance/movement, foodways, language, clothing/adornment, and spiritual practices.