As a gay man with a passion for rockhounding, I've often felt like an outsider in a community that is generally perceived as conservative and lacking in diversity. For years, I've struggled to find a sense of belonging in the world of rock and fossil collecting, encountering various barriers that have hindered my full participation in this fascinating hobby and profession. This is my story of perseverance and my mission to create a more inclusive space for all who share an interest in rockhounding, regardless of their background, sexual orientation, or gender identity.
The Rockhounding Community: A Brief Overview
Rockhounding, the recreational study and collection of rocks, minerals, and fossils, has long been a beloved pastime for people from all walks of life. Yet, despite its universal appeal, the rockhounding community has not always been an inclusive space for marginalized individuals. Historically, the community has been predominantly white, male, and heterosexual, which can sometimes create an unwelcoming environment for those who don't fit this mold.
My Experience: An Unfortunate Reality
I first encountered this exclusionary behavior when I was blocked from a local rockhounding meet up group (to elaborate: They blocked me from their facebook group, as they could not physically block me from the meet ups), which shall remain unnamed. As an openly gay man with an online persona known as "Fossil Daddy," I was told by a fellow member that the group's administrators that my presence was "too gay" and that it made others uncomfortable. This was a disheartening blow, as I had hoped to find a supportive community that shared my love for rock and fossil collecting.
While my experience may seem like an isolated incident, it is a reality for many LGBTQ+ individuals in the rockhounding community. This type of discrimination not only prevents us from enjoying the hobby we love but also perpetuates harmful stereotypes and reinforces the idea that rockhounding is reserved for a select few.
My Mission: Creating a More Inclusive Rockhounding Community
In the face of this adversity, I became determined to create a more inclusive and welcoming space for all rockhounding enthusiasts, regardless of their sexual orientation, gender identity, or other marginalized identities. To achieve this, I started my own discord group which explicitly welcomes LGBTQ+ individuals and fosters an atmosphere of understanding, respect, and appreciation for the diverse experiences and perspectives within the rockhounding community. To join, simply become a patron on Patreon or Sponsor a Fossil Hunt & I will send an invite link (this helps vet out minors and trolls)!
In addition to promoting inclusivity through online platforms, I have also partnered with local LGBTQ+ organizations to host rockhounding workshops and field trips (Such as the North Berkshire Mineral Club), providing opportunities for marginalized individuals to engage in the hobby without fear of discrimination. Through these efforts, I hope to break down barriers and make rockhounding a truly inclusive and accessible pastime for everyone.
Encouraging Diversity and Inclusion in the Rockhounding Community
One way to foster a welcoming environment is by making it clear that your group or event is open to all, regardless of their background, sexual orientation, or gender identity. Create explicit guidelines and rules that promote inclusivity and respect for all members. It is also important to educate yourself and others about LGBTQ+ history, terminology, and issues to better understand the experiences and perspectives of LGBTQ+ individuals in the rockhounding community. Share this knowledge with your fellow rockhounds to create a more inclusive environment.
Challenge stereotypes and prejudice by recognizing and confronting any biases you may hold against LGBTQ+ individuals, as well as any harmful stereotypes that exist within the rockhounding community. Encourage open discussions about diversity and inclusion and hold your fellow rockhounds accountable for their actions and words. Collaborating with LGBTQ+ organizations is another effective approach; partner with local LGBTQ+ organizations to host inclusive rockhounding events, workshops, and field trips. This not only provides opportunities for marginalized individuals to participate in the hobby but also raises awareness and fosters a more inclusive atmosphere in the wider rockhounding space.
Celebrating diversity is crucial in creating an inclusive space. Showcase the unique experiences and perspectives of LGBTQ+ rockhounds, as well as other marginalized individuals, by sharing their stories, promoting their work, and amplifying their voices. Recognize the value that diversity brings to the rockhounding community and make an effort to celebrate it.
Mentorship and support are essential for LGBTQ+ rockhounds who are new to the community. Offer guidance to help them navigate the hobby and develop their skills. Provide a safe space where they can ask questions, share their experiences, and connect with like-minded individuals. Finally, advocate for change by speaking up against discrimination and exclusion within the rockhounding community and working to dismantle barriers that prevent marginalized individuals from participating fully in the hobby. Advocate for policies and practices that promote inclusivity and ensure that everyone has an equal opportunity to enjoy rockhounding.
As a gay man in the rockhounding space, I have experienced firsthand the challenges and barriers that exist for LGBTQ+ individuals within this community. However, I believe that by working together and embracing diversity, we can create a more inclusive and welcoming environment for everyone who shares a passion for rock and fossil collecting. Through education, collaboration, advocacy, and celebration of diversity, we can break down barriers and make rockhounding a truly diverse and accessible hobby for all.