Mossback Podcast | How historic racism limits access to the PNW wilderness Many preservation advocates, from John Muir to Teddy Roosevelt, held discriminatory views that continue to affect equality in outdoor recreation. by Alison Mariella Désir / March 5, 2025
Mossback Mossback’s Northwest: How racism pervades PNW outdoors culture Alison Mariella Désir and Knute Berger talk about the complex legacy of Catherine Montgomery, often called “the mother of the Pacific Crest Trail.” by Knute Berger & Alison Mariella Désir & Gavin Borchert / October 25, 2024
News WA housing discrimination complaints dip, bucking national trend Allegations are down by over 50% in the state, with most coming from people with disabilities. But claims are at an all-time high nationally. by Laurel Demkovich Washington State Standard / July 22, 2024
Environment Wildlife advocates skeptical of WA wolf count As the state considers removing the species’ endangered status, some argue that the Colville Tribe’s recent population estimate is implausibly high. by Alex Brown & Laurel Demkovich Washington State Standard / July 16, 2024
Equity Out & Back: Reclaiming recreational spaces for BIPOC communities Alison Mariella Désir bucks expectations as she explores outdoor activities that have historically been inaccessible to people of color. by Alison Mariella Désir / July 5, 2024
News WA spent $5B over past decade on homelessness, housing programs The money has helped accelerate housing construction in the state, but there’s still only one affordable home for every five households that need one. by Laurel Demkovich Washington State Standard / May 27, 2024
Environment Washington’s gray wolf populations are making a strong comeback “Recovery is happening right before our eyes.” The species grew by 20% in WA last year, but advocates warn against declaring victory too early. by Laurel Demkovich Washington State Standard / April 26, 2024
Equity Out & Back: Creating a brave space for BIPOC cyclists Alison Mariella Désir meets with Will Cortez, co-founder of BikePOC PNW, an organization creating space and community for bike riders of color. by Alison Mariella Désir / March 29, 2024
Equity Out & Back: Riding the waves with Indigenous youth Alison Mariella Désir surfs for the first time on Quinault shores with Warm Current, a camp that shares the sport with young Native students by Alison Mariella Désir / March 22, 2024
Equity Out & Back | Diving into healing-oriented BIPOC swimming lessons Chandrika Francis of Oshun Swim School helps Alison face her fears and dip her toes into the water by highlighting its calming powers. by Alison Mariella Désir / March 15, 2024