“I think the outdoors is a great leveller for people of all orientations, backgrounds and beliefs. Nature truly is in charge…”
Gemma O’Neill, Roamers Collective member
We were met with a stacked pigeonhole after the word went out to our Roamers Collective, a welcoming community of fellow outdoorsy folk from all walks of life. Replies covered setbacks for queer folk in the outdoors, the importance of allyship, and the power of shared thoughts and good conversation.
A massive thank you to all those who opened up and shared their experiences. We really do appreciate it and the Collective wouldn’t be where it is without you. Well, it wouldn’t be anything without you… you are it.
For now, let’s stop hogging the ‘talking stick’ and pass it over to the crew, speaking from the heart and sharing stories from the roam - a handful of replies pinned below.
“I can be myself in nature and don't have to pretend. I don't have to conform to society.”
Stefani Ecknig, Roamers Collective member
“I think there is always a fear of non-acceptance. While there’s a lot of very supportive individuals, there’s also a lot of hateful folks in the outdoors and it can be disheartening and nerve-wracking at times.”
Brooke Champine, Roamers Collective member
“What I love about the outdoors is that it is escapism from society and social norms, and so queerness doesn't feel unusual or out of place. Travelling with my partner to remote places, I don't feel any hesitation in holding her hand or expressing any intimacy or affection, where in contrast this isn't something I would do on public transport in London where I live.”
Maddy Nutt, Roamers Collective member
“I think the outdoors is a great leveller for people of all orientations, backgrounds and beliefs. Nature is in charge and it has always been my go-to for comfort and escapism. I can forget what's going on in the world on our adventures and can truly be myself, particularly on our camping trips.”
Gemma O’Neill, Roamers Collective member
“A lot of the time it’s just the space and freedom to be who we want. When we want. Without a million eyes on us. Not that that’s a problem but being alone in nature is always calming, so sharing that with the one I love is better.”
Dannii, Roamers Collective member
“Nature is accepting of anyone who respects it. My girlfriend and I love being outdoors and remote as we feel safe and accepted, which brings us joy.”
Nichole Wyke, Roamers Collective member
The Roamers Collective is a space to share ideas and pull on creative threads, to be your authentic self within a space that feels safe and supportive for all who find meaningful escapism.
When sifting through the replies over a cuppa, it was made clear that the unwelcome feelings are most often not related to outdoor spaces (mother nature’s all for roamin’) but to people’s own skewed attitudes of ownership and judgement.
Collective member, Lucy Coppack, puts it best: “There are always challenges wherever you go but I think the main one is probably from other people.” Come on people, we need to switch up our thinking, be vocal in our support and allyship to make all spaces, indoors and out, feel safe and welcoming for the LGBTQ+ community and beyond.
Finding Your Tribe
Groups, content creators, and in-person events, as suggested by those in the know, with eyes up and ears to the ground - Our very own Roamers Collective:
Outdoorsy Gals | Facebook
Abbie Barnes | Instagram
Kade and Brooke Bandit | Instagram
Lael Wilcox | Instagram
Pattie Gonia | Instagram
Camper Vibe | YouTube
Van Wives | YouTube
Vanlife Pride | Event
Queer Hiking Bristol | Community Group
Queer Swimclub Margate | Community Group
If you’re a content creator in the LGBTQ+ community and want to reach out, we’d love to hear from ya. Just send over a DM to @passengerclothing.
We’re still learning, listening and taking full responsibility for our journey - if you have any Qs or just fancy a chat, please chuck an email over to info@passenger-clothing.com or drop us a DM.