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Celebrating a 2SLGBTQIA+ summit

This past September, the Maryland Recreation and Parks Association (MRPA) hosted what is thought to be the first-ever state trainings solely focused on the 2SLGBTQIA+ community. The benefits of 2SLGBTQIA+ inclusion in parks and recreation are numerous. It provides 2SLGBTQIA+ individuals with a sense of belonging and acceptance, reduces social isolation, and improves mental health outcomes. Providing community members with recreational opportunities that are relevant to their interests and identities improves overall quality of life. Moreover, it promotes social cohesion and understanding by bringing people from different backgrounds together in common spaces.

From a practical standpoint, embracing diversity also can have positive economic impacts. 2SLGBTQIA+ individuals and their allies are more likely to patronize businesses and support organizations that demonstrate a commitment to inclusivity. By positioning themselves as welcoming spaces for all, park and recreation departments can attract a broader range of visitors and strengthen community ties.

MRPA hosts an annual Director’s Summit. Conducting a retreat specifically for park and recreation directors from across the state can offer numerous benefits; providing valuable opportunities for area directors to come together and exchange ideas, strategies and best practices. They discuss common challenges that arise when managing parks and recreational facilities and brainstorm innovative solutions. This yearly meeting also fosters collaboration and networking among professionals who share a passion for enhancing public spaces and promoting community wellness. Additionally, retreats allow directors to stay updated on industry trends and developments, which ultimately can lead to the improvement and enrichment of recreational opportunities for all residents within the state.

Centering Equity

One of the topics discussed during a diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) session at the Director’s Summit was the 2SLGBTQIA+ community. It was apparent with the questions and discussion that we needed to dive deeper into the topic. Debby Huffman, CPRP, Takoma Park deputy director of recreation, texted MRPA’s executive director, Stephen Allen, and said, “We clearly need an in-depth training.” And from that, MRPA’s 2SLGBTQIA+ Summit was born.

Providing a full day of training for park and recreation professionals about the 2SLGBTQIA+ community would be very beneficial. It would help staff learn how to create a welcoming and inclusive environment for everyone, leading to a better understanding of the unique needs and challenges that patrons in the community might face. The training would also teach staff how to use respectful language and handle any issues that might arise. The hope was that all visitors would feel safe and comfortable as a result of the summit, thus making park and recreation spaces more enjoyable for the whole community.

Intentional Progress

A call to action was made, and the committee was formed. The committee met monthly and was very intentional throughout the entire process. They selected a location that was centrally located in the state and ensured there was a wide range of those in the community on the committee, as well as various levels of management. Instead of using a big chain for the catered lunch, they chose a caterer who is queer identified.

The summit began with a life stories presentation so that the audience could build familiarity and trust, as well as allow listeners to enter the story where they are, making them more open to learning the subject matter. The keynote covered “Gender 101,” which included basic vocabulary and the importance of pronouns. This allowed the audience to begin on the same page by learning the basics, meeting them where they were and working from that base knowledge. The summit also covered topics, such as:

• Designing spaces so they are already inclusive even within the building phases of projects
• Creating safe and welcoming spaces for the 2SLGBTQIA+ people when creating programming
• Facilitating an open forum to identify where organizations are struggling combined with those that have taken successful steps forward
• Discussing local and federal laws for customers and employees, and the legal ramifications when trying to create more inclusive policies

Carolyn Muller, director of parks, recreation and culture for City of Gaithersburg, Maryland, and summit attendee, says, “Attending MRPA’s inaugural 2SLGBTQIA+ Summit was a profoundly enriching experience. The event was well organized and brought together advocates and experts, providing a wealth of knowledge and insights. I learned a lot from the diverse range of sessions, particularly those focused on creating inclusive spaces and policies. Overall, it was an invaluable experience that has broadened my understanding and equipped me with practical tools to better support our diverse community.” The summit was, at the time, the most-attended summit that MRPA had facilitated. It received overall rave reviews from attendees and speakers.

Moving Forward

The committee is planning another summit this fall. The goal of this year’s 2SLGBTQIA+ Summit is to reaffirm the commitment we have toward equity and inclusion by building upon last year’s summit. Another goal of this year’s summit is to elevate ideas on creating safe spaces, allyship and how to accomplish that within our organizations. The committee is working on a panel discussion to assess what as a state organization we have been able to change based on last year’s summit versus this year’s and provide help for those coming upon barriers.

Allen, says, “The first annual 2SLGBTQIA+ Summit marks a pivotal moment for the Maryland Recreation and Parks Association, continuing our commitment to inclusivity and community engagement. With our hosting of this summit, MRPA demonstrates its commitment to embracing diversity and supporting all members of the community. This summit serves as an educational and networking platform where MRPA members can learn about the unique recreational needs and interests of 2SLGBTQIA+ individuals. The workshops, panels and discussions led by experts and community leaders allow our attendees to gain invaluable insights into creating safe and inclusive recreational spaces. The goal is to create innovative programming ideas that cater to diverse identities, fostering a welcoming environment. The 2SLGBTQIA+ Summit empowers MRPA members to become advocates for inclusivity within their own communities. By implementing what they learn, they ensure that Maryland’s recreational spaces are truly accessible and welcoming to everyone.”

Increasing Inclusivity

If you want to increase inclusivity within your agency, consider the following first steps:

• Use gender-neutral/all-gender restrooms in place of family rooms. Install baby changing stations inside so your restrooms are accessible to everyone.
• Update the word “co-ed” (which implies two genders) to “mixed gender” or “open to all.”
• Change “Mother” and “Father” on forms to “Parent/Guardian 1” and “Parent/Guardian 2” or “Adult 1” and “Adult 2.”
• Provide gender options other than male or female on forms, or a line where people can enter their own answer.
• Replace “his/her” in contracts, waivers, flyers, etc., with “their” or an applicable noun (camper, participant, etc.).
• Add pronouns to your email signature line (including cisgender employees) and training registration forms for state associations.
• Celebrate Pride Month.
• Offer training.
• Purchase pronoun pins or Pride flag pins.

Embracing 2SLGBTQIA+ inclusion in park and recreation programming and internal policies is not only morally imperative, but also beneficial to communities, employees and the organization as a whole. By creating spaces where everyone feels valued, respected and celebrated, we can build a more equitable and vibrant society for generations to come.

Noah Callahan is Sports Complex Supervisor for Anne Arundel County (Maryland) Department of Recreation and Parks. Debby Huffman, CPRP, is Deputy Director of Recreation at City of Takoma Park (Maryland).