Black skiing in the USA has a rich history that dates back to the early 1900s when African Americans first started to venture into winter sports. However, despite the significant contributions of Black skiers to the sport, their stories have often been overlooked and underrepresented in mainstream skiing culture.
Black skiing pioneers, such as Arthur Foote, Ben Finley, and Wendell P. White, were among the first African Americans to ski in the US. They faced significant challenges due to racial discrimination and segregation that was pervasive in the skiing industry at the time. Many ski resorts prohibited Black skiers from using their facilities, forcing them to create their own ski clubs and networks.
One of the most prominent Black ski clubs in the US was the National Brotherhood of Skiers (NBS), founded in 1973 by 13 African American ski clubs across the country. Today, the NBS is the largest ski organization in the US, representing over 3,000 Black skiers and snowboarders. The NBS has helped to foster a sense of community among Black skiers and has also been instrumental in increasing diversity and inclusivity in the skiing industry.
Despite the efforts of the NBS and other organizations, racial disparities still exist in the skiing industry. According to a report by the National Ski Areas Association, only 9% of skiers and snowboarders identify as non-white. This lack of diversity is reflected in the demographics of ski resort employees, with only 1.5% of ski resort employees identifying as Black.
To address these disparities, many ski resorts have implemented diversity and inclusion initiatives. For example, Vail Resorts, one of the largest ski resort companies in the US, has launched a program called "EpicPromise" which focuses on promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion in their resorts. The program includes partnerships with organizations like the NBS and scholarships for underrepresented groups to pursue careers in the ski industry.
Black skiers are also making their mark on the competitive skiing circuit. Mikaela Shiffrin, the most successful American alpine ski racer in history, has credited her success to her parents, including her Black father, who introduced her to skiing at a young age. Other Black skiers, such as Hig Roberts and Breezy Johnson, have also achieved success in competitive skiing.
In recent years, there has been a growing movement to highlight the contributions of Black skiers to the sport. The documentary "Brothers of the Snow" explores the history of Black skiing in the US and features interviews with Black ski pioneers and current members of the NBS. The film aims to educate viewers about the challenges faced by Black skiers and the contributions they have made to the sport.
Overall, the history of Black skiing in the US is a testament to the resilience and perseverance of African Americans in the face of adversity. Despite the challenges they have faced, Black skiers have made significant contributions to the sport and continue to inspire future generations of skiers. As the skiing industry works to become more diverse and inclusive, it is important to acknowledge the legacy of Black skiers and to continue to support and uplift their voices.