Parks & Trails New York believes that public lands are for all.  As such, we are committed to ensuring that the joy and awe of experiences in nature are available to everyone, regardless of ability, race, class, creed, or gender and sexuality.  We work to remove physical, social, and systemic barriers to participation in outdoor activities, creating a better experience for all New Yorkers.  We are actively cultivating a safe and supportive environment where everyone feels respected, heard, and valued.

To better accommodate all New Yorkers, we’ve been participating in the NYOA/NYS Canal Corporation’s Accessibility Education Program, and work closely with Rochester Accessible Adventures (RAA) as Inclusion Partners. Members of our staff have already:

• Completed Inclusion Ambassador Training, which includes ways to deliver more inclusive services and principles like person-first language.
• Become Certified Inclusion Accessors, with in-depth training on implementing accessibility and inclusion best practices.
• Are in the process of assessing our programs and operations and are beginning to implement a new, more inclusive approach to our work.

As part of our work with RAA we have identified an inclusion point of contact, Jonathan Duda, who, while not yet an expert on all things inclusion, eagerly awaits questions and conversations from anyone seeking support, information on inclusive practices, or assistance in ensuring that every PTNY guest feels welcome and supported. 

We are excited to be on this journey with you and are committed to knowing better and doing more to make our parks, trails, and public lands available to all New Yorkers.