Natural environments have long been regarded as places of peace and healing. Time outdoors can reduce stress, improve mood, and ease mental and emotional burdens. For Black communities however, access to such areas is often limited. In a process known as redlining, certain neighborhoods are refused financial services which commonly places low-income populations in unsuitable living conditions. These inequities make people of color 3 times less likely to reside in areas with immediate access to nature, creating a “nature gap.” As we work to dismantle false narratives and combat environmental injustices, Black beauty and resilience continue to shine as beacons of hope. Their strength prompts us to advocate for acceptance and inclusion in all spaces, giving everyone the sense of belonging they deserve.
