Prioritizing Justice, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion in the Recreation Profession:

Prioritizing Justice, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion in the Recreation Profession: An Imperative for Ethical and Functional Advancement

 

Introduction:

The field of recreation, encompassing outdoor and therapeutic activities, has witnessed notable expansion, especially amid the global pandemic. Nevertheless, it is crucial to recognize and give precedence to the persistent challenges related to justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion (JEDI) within this domain, as highlighted by Harrison et al. (2021). The infusion of JEDI principles into industry practices is not merely a moral obligation but also an essential prerequisite for cultivating growth, inspiring innovation, and safeguarding the long-term viability of the sector.

 

Access and Representation:

One pivotal facet of the justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion (JEDI) initiative is its commitment to ensuring equitable access to recreation opportunities, irrespective of an individual's socio-demographic background. The perpetuation of a cycle wherein marginalized groups are excluded from participation and professional engagement in specific spaces is attributed to the absence of representation (Harrison et al., 2021). Henceforth, it is imperative to consistently allocate resources and undertake persistent endeavors to dismantle impediments and foster a more comprehensive milieu that effectively aligns with the diverse segments of society.

 

Community Well-being and Mental Health:

The domain of recreational activities exerts a significant impact on society, particularly concerning the overall welfare of communities and the mental well-being of individuals. Justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion (JEDI) principles are essential in the present milieu. Recreational spaces frequently serve as pivotal social nodes facilitating physical exertion and enhancing psychological welfare. Nevertheless, these environments may inadvertently amplify socioeconomic inequalities without deliberate incorporation of (JEDI) principles (Harrison et al., 2021). Hence, the integration of JEDI (Justice, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion) principles throughout the entire lifecycle of design and execution assumes paramount importance to maximize the favorable impact of these environments on the overall welfare of the populace.

 

Innovation and Adaptability:

The concept of diversity transcends mere linguistic currency and assumes the status of a strategic imperative. Cultivating a heterogeneous workforce characterized by various backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives is conducive to generating innovative ideas and solutions. According to Harrison et al. (2021), a prominent obstacle the recreation profession encounters is expeditiously transforming consumer demands and societal values. In the contemporary dynamic milieu, the imperatives of innovation and adaptability assume paramount significance. As a result, cultivating a corporate environment that places high regard on the principles of diversity and inclusion can yield a more flexible and versatile workforce more inclined towards generating innovative and imaginative solutions.

 

Professional Development and Identity:

Implementing justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion (JEDI) programs substantially influences the professional identity within recreation. In their seminal work, Harrison et al. (2021) elucidates the intricate matter surrounding the phenomenon commonly referred to as the "professional identity crisis" within the domain of outdoor recreation. The active incorporation of JEDI (Justice, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion) principles can alleviate the current crisis by facilitating the establishment of a unified professional identity. Culturing an inclusive professional culture within an industry plays a pivotal role in fortifying its identity and bolstering its credibility, thereby augmenting its allure as a viable and promising career trajectory.

 

Ecological and Ethical Considerations:

The domain of recreation is inherently intertwined with the natural environment. Recreation professionals assume the onus of stewardship over these habitats, thereby necessitating the fulfillment of their ethical obligation to advance sustainability and equity. Harrison et al. (2021) acknowledges the significance of integrating social-ecological health models within the domain. From this vantage point, the JEDI (Justice, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion) values exhibit a remarkable congruence with the principles of ecological responsibility, thereby fostering the advancement of ethical and sustainable endeavors.

Conclusion:

Prioritizing justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion (JEDI) within the recreation profession is imperative for ethical and functional development. The research conducted by Harrison et al. (2021) underscores the importance of addressing these concerns, as they play a crucial role in dismantling barriers, enhancing community well-being, fostering creativity, strengthening professional identity, and fulfilling ethical obligations. The integration of JEDI concepts significantly influences the trajectory of the recreation profession. Neglecting to recognize and prioritize these efforts poses a substantial risk to societal progress and the perpetuation of systemic inequalities, with potential enduring and far-reaching consequences.

 

 

Reference:

Harrison, D. L., Scruggs, C. J., Hendrick, M. L., Caraway, J. K., Morales, B., Jones, J. M., Kane, B. J., Perkins, I. M., & Zajchowski, C. A. B. (2021). Contemporary Issues, Opportunities, and Resources for the U.S. outdoor recreation profession. Journal of Outdoor Recreation and Tourism, 39, 100560. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jort.2022.100560

 

 

Authors

Madison Price

Graduate Student

Department of Parks, Recreation, Exercise, & Sport Science

Eastern Kentucky University

 

Michael Bradley

Associate Professor

Department of Agriculture and Tourism

Arkansas Tech University