Climate Cymru BAME has advised the Welsh government to establish dog-free zones in an effort to make outdoor spaces more inclusive and less racist. This recommendation was part of a report that will be used to support the development and implementation of anti-racist plans for Wales. The goal is to create an anti-racist nation by 2030, with zero tolerance for racial inequality. The report focuses on racism relating to climate change, environment, and rural affairs, and aims to align green spaces with the Labour Party’s 2022 Anti-Racist Wales Action Plan.
The report highlighted barriers faced by ethnic minorities in accessing outdoor spaces, including the perception that activities like gardening are dominated by middle-aged white women. The North Wales Africa Society also recommended creating dog-free areas after focus groups revealed that some individuals feel unsafe in the presence of dogs. Additionally, concerns were raised about the lack of access to public transportation to non-urban green spaces and poor air quality in towns and cities. The Welsh government acknowledged that people of ethnic minority backgrounds in Wales face barriers due to exclusions and racism.
The Welsh government is committed to creating an anti-racist nation by 2030 and has developed an Anti-Racist Wales Action Plan to address racial inequality. The partnership with Climate Cymru BAME and other organizations aims to support policy teams in developing and implementing anti-racist plans for Wales. The report on racism relating to climate change, environment, and rural affairs is part of an assessment that seeks to make green spaces more inclusive and less racist. The government is working to ensure that everyone, regardless of background, can access and enjoy outdoor spaces in Wales.
The recommendation to establish dog-free zones in local green spaces is part of a broader effort to address racism and exclusion in outdoor activities. The goal is to create a more inclusive environment that is welcoming to people of all backgrounds. This initiative aligns with the values of anti-racism and aims to remove barriers that prevent ethnic minorities from fully participating in outdoor activities. By addressing issues such as perceptions of gardening and access to green spaces, the Welsh government hopes to create a more equitable outdoor experience for all residents of Wales.
The North Wales Africa Society’s recommendation for dog-free areas in green spaces is supported by concerns raised during focus groups about safety around dogs. Some individuals, particularly black African females, expressed feeling unsafe in the presence of dogs in outdoor spaces. This highlights the importance of creating welcoming and inclusive environments for all individuals, regardless of background. By implementing dog-free zones, the Welsh government hopes to address concerns and create spaces that are accessible and welcoming to everyone.
The Welsh government’s commitment to creating an anti-racist nation is reflected in efforts to address racism in outdoor spaces and make green spaces more inclusive. By working with organizations like Climate Cymru BAME and incorporating recommendations from groups like the North Wales Africa Society, the government is taking steps to remove barriers and create a more welcoming outdoor environment. The goal is to ensure that everyone in Wales, regardless of background, can access and enjoy green spaces in a safe and inclusive manner. This initiative is part of a broader effort to promote equality and address racial inequality in all aspects of society.
