It was an honor and a privilege to be in attendance at Oakland's historic African American Museum & Library to celebrate one of the most passionate people I know, my friend and Outdoor Afro founder, Rue Mapp. It was a joy to experience the outpouring of love as we all gathered around to surprise the birthday girl as she ascended the staircase, and a real treat to witness her commendations from members of Congress and the County of Alameda for her groundbreaking work centered around African Americans and the great outdoors. Did I mention that Rue is also one of the Faces of Conservation for the Wilderness Society in Washington, DC? She is truly doing us all proud and creating opportunities to reconnect our community to nature.
The Outdoor Afro team worked to further Rue's vision by putting together an Outdoor Afro fundraiser, which helped raise money devoted to scholarships to send youth to Oakland Feather River Camp next summer! Emma and I will be looking forward to joining in on the fun. You don't have to wait until next summer to get in on the camping action, you can follow Rue and her family on their upcoming RV trip to the California Coast!
Visit OutdoorAfro.com for color-filled adventures and valuable information about enjoying all the rewarding possibilities of nature.
OMG! Thank you so much for this recognition! It meant so much to share my special celebration with you. You know the road traveled, and I am so glad to call you a friend!
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We're there to support you every step of the way! This is all only the beginning, and a beautiful beginning it is :)
ReplyDeleteThis was a beautiful testament to Rue's success and passion for her work. I am very proud of her accomplishments and think that it is the most beautiful legacy she could have for her children and other folk of color, who never considered what the great outdoors are all about. Beautifully written.
ReplyDeleteGreat post Mama! I am going to put a link to her blog right now.
ReplyDeleteIts great to be surrounded by a powerful circle of women. Lots of shining examples to light the way. Its been an exciting journey for Outdoor Afro, and it just keeps getting better and better. I think its very appropriate to say GO BEARS!
ReplyDeleteIts a really great post. I also admire this.
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