A message of solidarity

 "Black lives matter -- throughout the country and at the crag." American Alpine Club

Alongside many in our community, we at the Salt Lake Climbers Alliance are angered and saddened at George Floyd’s death at the hands of police officers in Minneapolis – just one of a long line of unacceptable acts of violence against Black individuals. We understand that these protests are not only about George Floyd, but about others who lost their lives to police violence: Dreasjon “Sean” Reed, Jamar Clark, Breonna Taylor,, Ahmaud Arbery, Botham Jean, Michael Brown, and many others. Our hearts and thoughts go out to our Black community members who have been victims of violence, racism, and other forms of discrimination by individuals, organizations, and institutions. And, we stand by the intentions and objectives of many in our community who are peacefully protesting. 

The SLCA unequivocally condemns racism and racist acts, whether they be individual or organizational, and overt, implicit, or systemic. 

We also recognize that our common pursuit of climbing, as an activity and lifestyle, is characterized by the systemic racism that infuses the broader society. The SLCA is dedicated to the inclusion of advocates and stewards regardless of race, ethnicity, religion, social class, gender, sexual orientation, gender identification, ability, or age. Striving to strengthen the climbing community through the inclusion of all climbers is paramount to our mission.

The SLCA reaffirms our commitment to:

  • continuously work to identify and support actions to create meaningful change

  • foster safe spaces for outdoor climbing regardless of race, ethnicity, religion, social class, gender, sexual orientation, gender identification, ability, or age

  • engage our community in maintenance of outdoor climbing areas free of discrimination and hate

  • develop deeper relationships with social justice organizations fighting on behalf of marginalized individuals and communities

The SLCA welcomes your input, volunteerism, and voice. We collectively continue to act as a community to ensure a safe and equitable outdoor climbing places;  where all engage in stewardship and advocacy to protect the places we climb.

Sincerely,

SLCA Executive Director and Board of Directors

Photo by SLCA member, Andy Beerman of the peaceful protest in Salt Lake City Thursday evening

Julia Geisler