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Survey: National Parks need to reach out to non-white communities

Nearly half of non-white voters have never been to a national park.

According to a nationwide survey conducted by New America Media, nearly half of non-white voters have never been to a national park.

 

 

A significant number of African-Americans, Asians and Hispanics never get to see these natural treasures, because they don't feel welcome.

 

 

Last week, New America Media brought together a panel to discuss how to increase diversity in all aspects of National Public Lands services. A number of civil rights, environmental justice, conservation and community organizations have joined the cause and formed the Next 100 Coalition.

 

 

They aim to help design a more inclusive approach, so that over the next 100 years the park service is more reflective of all people in the United States.

 

Kay Wang, supervisor of volunteers for the Golden Gate National Recreation Area: Sometimes, because of ranger uniforms, people mistake us for immigration officers.