Registration - BIPOC Outdoors at NMU

Monday, July 27 - Tuesday, July 28, 2026

This summit aims to bring together BIPOC and allies from Michigan, the Midwest, and beyond to share best practices for facilitating BIPOC-centered spaces within outdoor recreation, environmental justice, and conservation movements. Attendees will have the opportunity to hear from keynote speakers, panelists, and each other about best practices in grassroots movements that are helping to strengthen the relationship between BIPOC communities and Nature.

This event will be led by OEP in collaboration with Lance Woods, co-founder of WeRun313. Together, they bring a wealth of experience in community building, health, and movement, creating an engaging space that centers connection, wellness, and shared experiences in outdoor and urban environments.

The BIPOC Outdoors Summit 5K is a signature event that promotes inclusivity, wellness, and outdoor engagement within the NMU community and beyond. As part of the broader BIPOC Outdoors Summit, this professionally timed 5K invites runners and walkers of all backgrounds and abilities to participate in a welcoming, community-centered experience.

This event combines competitive racing elements (chip timing, bibs, awards) with a strong cultural and community focus, highlighting representation in outdoor recreation. This 5k event positions the BIPOC Outdoors Summit 5K as both a competitive race and a meaningful community experience, which centers on representation, accessibility, and connection to the outdoors.

Date: Monday, July 27

Location: Start is at the Wildcat Statue in front of Jamrich Hall

Race Check-In: 5:00 pm

Race Announcements: 5:45 pm

Race Start: 6:00 pm

This event that promotes inclusivity, wellness, and outdoor engagement within the NMU community and beyond. As part of the broader BIPOC Outdoors Summit, this professionally timed 5K invites runners and walkers of all backgrounds and abilities to participate in a welcoming, community-centered experience.

This event combines competitive racing elements with a strong cultural and community focus, highlighting representation in outdoor recreation. This 5k event positions the BIPOC Outdoors Summit 5K as both a competitive race and a meaningful community experience, which centers on representation, accessibility, and connection to the outdoors.

The heart of BIPOC Outdoors is about gathering outdoor enthusiasts, community builders, and those seeking restoration and inspiration. If this resonates with you, it’s a meaningful opportunity to show up and make a difference in your local community.

Wednesday, July 29 - Friday, July 31, 2026

This rest retreat is for communities that are underrepresented in environmental justice professionals and community leaders at risk of burnout from combating racial and climate injustice. This three-day retreat will offer several optional low to medium-intensity activities for attendees to choose from each day. Together, attendees will spend time connecting with the outdoors, themselves, and each other

Registration is now closed for 2026