Why Are the Parks So White?

At one entrance to Yellowstone, a 50-ft. stone arch declares, “For the Benefit and Enjoyment of the People.” Not everyone is accepting the invitation.

While the national parks are for everyone, surveys say minorities, who account for about 40% of the population, make up just 20% of visitors. Among the reasons cited: lack of familiarity, language barriers and the homogeneity of the workforce.

In response, the Park Service is reaching out, in part with free access for fourth-graders–a step toward making the parks not just open but enjoyed by all.