“Previously, I had been to countries where there were some questionable LGBTQ+ laws, but I had never been anywhere where I was considered illegal.
“At the end of the day, it’s very simple: we need to open up outdoor spaces for people of all identities to experience these places. Because it will take all of us in this world — on this planet — to understand and care about these natural spaces if we are expected to also help save them.
“I was nervous,” one participant said, “having come on my own, but I made friends for life.”
“If you don’t know any queer surfers, begin to educate yourself on how you can be an ally to LGBTQ+ folks, because this work begins with self-understanding.