Taking You There: Inspiration for an Issue of Access and Culture in Recreation

Mills, Ciera

Permalink

https://hdl.handle.net/2142/109773 Copy

Description

Title

Taking You There: Inspiration for an Issue of Access and Culture in Recreation

Author(s)

Mills, Ciera

Issue Date

2021

Keyword(s)

• Recreation
• Leisure Activities

Abstract

"This image depicts a series of stairways through the ruins of a Bavarian castle. Countless similar locations decorate the countryside of my host nation and the whole of Europe. The ruins, historical sites, villages, nature preserves and parks throughout Germany are connected by a series of maintained trails and passages open to the public year-round. These trails, called ""wanderwegs"", provide exercise, fresh air, mental fortitude, and more. Access to these areas is as air to the people; essential. Outdoor recreation and leisure activities are considered a right, the public expects and demands these resources. Recreation is built into the daily routine here with an infrastructure designed to facilitate public access. This is a stark contrast to American recreation culture, in which leisure and recreation activities are often viewed as a luxury. Access to parks and natural spaces varies widely among U.S. cities, towns, and states, and on the basis of race, ethnicity, gender, and ability. Recreation does not benefit Americans equally. Studying in the online RST program while living abroad in a country where recreation and the benefits thereof are viewed as essential provides on-the-ground inspiration for approaches to issues of access in the industry."

Type of Resource

Image

Language

eng

Permalink

http://hdl.handle.net/2142/109773

Copyright and License Information

Copyright 2021 Ciera Mills

Owning Collections