Diversity, Equity, And Inclusion

DEI STATEMENT

Sundog Outdoor Leadership Initiative believes that both diversity and inclusion are essential to growth and learning. We all achieve our potential when each person on our courses and in our community feels a true sense of belonging, and has the confidence to express their full self. Historically, however, outdoor programs have attracted largely white and privileged populations. At Sundog, we strongly believe that all are welcome and we work hard to facilitate inclusive and equal opportunities for every child in our region to participate in and feel connected to our outdoor world.

LAND ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

Sundog Outdoor Leadership Initiative facilitates courses on the historic land of the Wabanaki Dawnland Confederacy and likely others who we don’t know about in present day Midcoast, Maine. The Wabanaki Confederacy is made up of Mi’kmaq Nation, the Houlton Band of Maliseet, the Passamaquady tribe, and Penobscot Nation. Through a series of broken promises, forced treaties, and deceitful agreements, the land was slowly stolen away by settlers starting in the 1600’s. At Sundog, we believe it is vitally important to remember, honor, and engage in the practice of decolonization to allow for a more inclusive future for all. To learn more about the original custodians of this region, please visit https://www.wabanakialliance.com/.