Leddy Park hosts BIPOC Winter Community day

BURLINGTON, Vt. (WCAX) - Burlington Park and Rec’s urban park rangers hosted the first-ever BIPOC Winter Community day Saturday afternoon in Leddy Park.

Organizers say the day is designed to create a welcoming space for BIPOC community members and provide them with the opportunity to come together and take part in winter sports in a safe, comfortable, and affordable way.

People in attendance could try things like skiing, sledding, and ice skating. All the equipment was provided free of charge.

“It’s essentially a winter-focused event to get folks who identify as BIPOC into engaging in outdoor recreation activities in winter -- which is, as we know, a white-dominated space. I know myself personally getting into winter activities has been very daunting. So, we’re increasing accessibility by making this event no cost to gear, to food to future events,” said Andrew Romano, an urban park ranger.

Organizers say they plan to hold similar events in the future and hope to continue promoting access to these classic winter sports.

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