Por Latino Outdoors

On October 28, Latino environmental leaders, advocates, and community partners gathered at the California Natural Resources Agency (CNRA) in Sacramento for Tierra Sagrada, a celebration of generations of Latino leadership in conservation, environmental justice, and outdoor equity. Hosted by Resources Legacy Fund, GreenLatinos, Trust for Public Land, Azul, and Latino Outdoors, in community with CNRA, the event honored past and emerging leaders. During a Fireside Charla, panelists reflected on how experiences with extreme heat, pollution, and limited green spaces shaped their advocacy, reinforcing Latino Outdoors three advocacy priorities: equitable access to parks and public lands, environmental justice, and community leadership in decision-making.

These priorities reflect decades of collaboration among advocates, state agencies, and coalitions. Latino Outdoors has worked alongside CNRA, California State Parks, Parks Now, the California Conservation Equity Partnership (CCEP), and community partners to expand outdoor access. A major milestone came on September 29, 2026, when Governor Gavin Newsom signed the Outdoors for All Act (SB 1268), codifying California’s Outdoors for All initiative at CNRA. As Rue Mapp, Founder and CEO of Outdoor Afro, shared, “So incredible – and a generational benefit of so much hard work!” This achievement reflects years of collective effort to make outdoor access and belonging a lasting state commitment.

California is also advancing these goals through the Outdoor Equity Grants Program (OEP) and Statewide Park Program (SPP), which expand outdoor experiences and parks in underserved communities. OEP’s first funding round connected more than 250,000 youth with nature. Another recent win, Assembly Bill 2734 (Hart), signed on September 20, 2026, established a funding mechanism that directs 20% of specified 49ers Foundation license plate revenues to OEP, subject to legislative appropriation. In the new year, Latino Outdoors will work with leaders and organizational partners to monitor implementation and advocate for these resources to reach their intended purpose. Each victory, large or small, brings us closer to lasting outdoor equity.

With the November 3rd Midterm Elections approaching, Tierra Sagrada highlighted how civic participation shapes decisions affecting parks, public lands, conservation, and community health. California’s progress offers a model for advancing outdoor equity nationwide, but sustaining that progress requires continued engagement. Make your voice heard: learn about the issues, research candidates and ballot measures, and make a plan to vote.

Visit Voto Latino for voter education and participation resources. Beyond Election Day, stay involved in your community and support efforts to make the outdoors a place where everyone can access, enjoy, and belong.