Retailer REI Co-Op and the minority-owned Outdoor Afro Inc announced a collaboration this week to offer gear and guided tours that celebrate "black joy" in nature.
In a statement, Rue Mapp, the founder and chief executive of Outdoor Afro, explained that the collaboration is meant to "bring an unforgettable experience through thoughtfully curated itineraries so there is something for everyone."
Mapp launched Outdoor Afro in 2021 as a business property linked to a non-profit of the same name. Mapp launched the organization to give greater representation and opportunities for Blacks in the outdoors.
Together, REI and Outdoor Afro will offer multi-day experiences in three national parks, including two in Shenandoah and one in New River Gorge. While the experiences vary, they'll include activities like camping, hiking, and kayaking as well as historical tours.
Justin Wood, REI director of experiences, explained that Mapp and her team "thoughtfully considered every detail to deliver a meaningful and truly authentic experience for guests, from the food to the activities to the focus on Black history and culture, past and present, in the places we explore."
Adventure packages will be offered between July and August. Prices range from $1,800 to $2,800. And if you don't want to participate in an adventure, you could buy a T-shirt or other branded gear.
