Empowering the Skating Community: A Spotlight on Black Girls Skate
The world of skating is an exhilarating and empowering space, but it can also be daunting for those who don’t see themselves represented within it. Enter Black Girls Skate (BGS), a 501(c) charitable organization that’s breaking down barriers and fostering a more inclusive and accessible environment for skaters of color and/or women, non-binary, non-gender conforming or trans individuals. Come take a closer look at the inspiring work of Black Girls Skate and how they’re transforming the landscape of the skating world.
A Mission to Promote Equity, Visibility, and Safety
Established in 2019, Black Girls Skate seeks to create equity, visibility, and safety for skaters of all skill levels, skate styles, and related sports across the Black diaspora. Their mission doesn’t just focus on ice skating, figure skating, and roller skating, it also embraces skateboarding, longboarding, and WCMX. By amplifying the voices and experiences of these skaters, Black Girls Skate is reshaping the skating community and making it more accessible for everyone.
Careboxes: Tailored Support for Skaters
One of the key initiatives by Black Girls Skate is their Carebox program. These careboxes are customized collections of resources, swag, and gear that cater to the unique needs of individual skaters, events, and locations. Whether it’s a starter kit for a beginner or an upgrade for a seasoned skater, these careboxes provide tangible support and encouragement. To date, Black Girls Skate has distributed over 750 careboxes, empowering countless skaters to pursue their passions.
Pop-up Events: Building Community and Awareness
Black Girls Skate’s impact doesn’t stop at careboxes. They also travel to communities across the country to host pop-up events that promote safe skate spaces, community building, and awareness. From giveaways and conversations to lessons and safety education, these events offer a safe and welcoming environment for skaters to connect, learn, and grow.
To ensure each event’s success, Black Girls Skate collaborates with local partners, creatives, instructors, and businesses. Their pop-ups serve as a networking platform and provide equitable opportunities for all involved. With 20 pop-up events under their belt and over 2,000 participants served, Black Girls Skate is making a real difference in the lives of skaters across the nation.
Coming Up: Atlanta, Georgia
If you’re inspired by the work of Black Girls Skate and want to join in on the fun, their next pop-up event is scheduled for May 27th 2023 in Atlanta, GA. Don’t miss this opportunity to be a part of a vibrant and inclusive skating community that values representation, safety, and growth.
Black Girls Skate is a shining example of how dedication, passion, and hard work can create a more equitable and diverse skating world. By highlighting and supporting skaters across the Black diaspora, they’re fostering a sense of belonging and empowering countless individuals to embrace the joy of skating. Through their carebox initiative and pop-up events, Black Girls Skate is paving the way for a brighter, more inclusive future in the skating community.
As a proud supporter of Black Girls Skate, Riedell Skates encourages everyone to learn more about their incredible work and get involved. Together, we can make the skating world a more diverse and welcoming place for all.