Rue Mapp

Bethanie Hines

Rue Mapp is a visionary leader in the environmental and outdoor community. From an early age, Rue developed a deep love of nature through her family and in 2009, Rue founded Outdoor Afro Org., a groundbreaking not-for-profit organization that celebrated and inspires Black connections through leadership.

She penned the inspiring book “Nature Swagger,” which delves into her personal journey and the broader narrative of Black American connections to nature. The book was recognized by Oprah’s Book Club as “Five Hopeful Books about our Planet” and made the Library Journal's Best Books of 2022 list.

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Awards: National Geographic Fellow, National Wildlife Federation Communication Award, AFAR Travel Vanguard Award, The Mountaineers Adventure with Purpose Award, Heinz Award - Environment Category, Women in Travel Summit JourneyWoman Award, National Wildlife Federation Communications Award

Book:

Nature Swagger

Stories and Visions of Black Joy in the Outdoors
Nature / Environment
Chronicle Books
November 2022
ISBN 9781797214290
Hardcover, 192 pages

An exquisite combination of beautiful photography and compelling stories, this book from Outdoor Afro founder, Rue Mapp, celebrates Black joy in nature. Filled with breathtaking photography, inspiring stories, profiles, and spotlights from Outdoor Afro group members, prominent Black leaders in outdoor spaces, and other organizations, this book inspires Black communities to reclaim their place in the natural world. Interspersed throughout are essays from Mapp on the rich history of Black involvement in the outdoors, activism, and conservation, as well as resources for readers who want to deepen their own connection with the elements. A perfect blend of gorgeous photographs, awe-inspiring stories, and Black history, this collection is the perfect gift for anyone looking to heal in these sacred natural spaces. More/less