Inclusion

Three people with helmets prepare climbing equipment at a rock formation, smiling and chatting.

The AMGA is committed to building and supporting an inclusive community of guides and instructors.

What we are working on now

Current Inclusion Initiatives

Fostering Inclusivity

AMGA's Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee of the Board of Directors works to promote inclusive practices and foster a culture of belonging for all AMGA members.

Affinity Based Programming

We have sought to create welcoming and empowering environments through affinity programs since 2018. These programs have been developed in collaboration with community partners who now contribute over $80,000 annually to the advancement of inclusive learning at the AMGA.

Scholarship Opportunities

Over $70,000 in AMGA scholarships funds directly support AMGA students participating in Mountain Guide Programs.

Inclusion Training

AMGA has facilitated inclusion training for AMGA office staff, instructor team, climbing instructor program providers, and board of directors to promote a welcoming environment for all AMGA members.

Two people, wearing climbing gear and helmets, smile while preparing ropes on a rocky cliff.
Enhancing Educational Opportunities

The AMGA has been redesigning the AMGA Alpine Guide and Ski Guide Programs to better meet the needs of guides in different regions of the country, and at different levels of career development. AMGA is also expanding affinity programming to include advanced level affinity programs.

A group of people wearing helmets stand outdoors, preparing for a rock climbing activity.
Fundraising

The AMGA cultivates fundraising initiatives, such as the BIPOC Scholarship Fund which disburses $8,000 annually to support training, travel, equipment, and mentorship for BIPOC members.

Group of climbers checking their gear, focusing on ropes and harnesses, preparing for a climb.
Ability Inclusion

Partnership with Paradox Sports to help train instructors & guides to work with people of varied abilities.

Internal Tracking & Reporting

New tools will help AMGA track member demographics for the purpose of understanding the demographic characteristics of the AMGA membership.

AMGA's Inclusion Progress

2018
  • Inclusion Training for General Membership
  • Unconscious Bias Training
  • Gender Forums
  • AMGA’s First Affinity Program
2019
  • National Instructor Team Inclusion Training
  • Clinics on incorporating inclusion into guiding work
2020
  • Development of BIPOC Scholarship Fund
  • Anti-Harassment & Prohibited Behavior Policy
  • Anti-Harassment Policies for SPI/CWI Providers
  • Anti-Harassment Policies for Accredited Businesses
  • AMGA’s first LGBTQIA2s+ SPI Course
2021
  • AMGA’s First BIPOC SPI Course
2022-2024
  • Elimination of tuition reimbursements for scholarship recipients
  • Elimination of tuition reimbursements for affinity scholarships
  • New Women’s Ski Guide Course launched

DEI Frequently Asked Questions

What is DEI?

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Why is DEI important?

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How can I be an effective DEI advocate?

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