Elevating Belonging
At Aspen Snowmass, because we operate on public lands, we believe the mountains should look more like America. We value creating continuous learning opportunities for ourselves and our community, creating a welcoming environment for all people, not just those that have historically had access to the mountains.
A racial justice demonstration in downtown Aspen, summer 2020.
We also believe that we have a responsibility to use our platform to promote access and opportunity, not only for those who live, work, and play in the Roaring Fork Valley, but all who visit here, too.
But not everyone always feels safe, comfortable, and welcome in the mountains. So, we started conversations, including leadership from Ski Noir and the National Brotherhood of Skiers. Those conversations, and many since with leaders, friends, employees, and community members from a range of ethnicities, races, and lived experiences - became a turning point. It began a process of looking to better understand the pressures that historically marginalized communities have long faced, and it shaped our aspiration to become a more inclusive and welcoming place for all.
We’re proud to host Burton’s Culture Shifters for the last five years, a unique event that brings together a diverse community of riders, artists, and changemakers to celebrate inclusion and push the boundaries of what snow culture looks like. The gathering is a powerful example of how the mountains can be a platform for connection, creativity, and belonging — and reflects our commitment to making snow sports more inclusive and representative of the world we live in.
We also believe it is important to acknowledge that Aspen Snowmass operates on the ancestral lands of the Ute people, whose history and stewardship of this land long precede us. Today, our community includes a large Latino/a population, as well as individuals and families from around the world — all of whom help shape the culture and character of this valley.
Our commitment is simple: to create spaces where everyone feels respected, valued, and truly at home — both on and off the mountain.
Expanding Our Horizons
Creating a better world takes real action. Join us by expanding your own knowledge and involvement.
Learn more ...
... about the National Brotherhood of Skiers.
Contribute ...
... to Aspen Words, helping to stock our libraries with anti-racist and Black-authored books.
Listen ...
... to Seeing White, a podcast that describes the impacts of whiteness on society.
Engage ...
... with former Buttermilk and Snowmass Patroller Wayne Hare's Civil Conversations project.