PHX Reporter

The city of Phoenix was proud to host the First Annual Black History Month Hike with a Firefighter, Hear from a Park Ranger Event.

The Phoenix Fire Department, the United Black Firefighters of Arizona, and City of Phoenix Parks and Recreation Department teamed up last Saturday, 2/18, at South Mountain, to promote hiking safety education while celebrating Black History.

Participants enjoyed a self-paced hike while learning about local and national black history. The free family-friendly event featured music, light refreshments, job recruitment opportunities, and chances to win free passes to Phoenix Zoo.

Attendees gathered at South Mountain Educational and Environmental Center (SMEEC) to begin the hike. Prior to hitting the trails Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego gave remarks alongside, members of the City Council, Phoenix Fire Department, and City of Phoenix Parks and Recreation Department.

Families from across the Valley joined the event in South Phoenix to hike with their children and pets.

The goals of the event were to connect city of Phoenix employees with the community they serve to celebrate diversity, celebrate African American contributions to American History, and promote hiking and hiking safety, particularly for African Americans who are underrepresented as hikers.   As the spring is peak hiking season in Phoenix, it's vital for the community to take a hike and do it right.

Phoenix firefighters and Park Rangers shared information regarding hiking safety and joined the trails with community members. They offered hiking safety tips and taught them about the different trail heads. Beginners were encouraged to hike the ADA-accessible Judith Tunell trail and intermediate to advanced hikers were encouraged to hike Holbert Trail.

Mayor Kate Gallego participated in the event as she walked the Judith Tunell trail. She shared the fond memories she has with that trail as she walked it regularly when she was pregnant with her son.

"This event is a great opportunity to take advantage of one of our city's Points of Pride while celebrating black history," said Mayor Gallego. “South Mountain is near and dear to my heart, and I am thrilled to start another tradition with this annual hike!"

Councilwoman Ann O'Brien, her husband, and their dog hiked Holbert Trail. She said, "This was a fantastic opportunity for our residents and visitors to chat with Phoenix Firefighters about the necessary precautions while exploring our beautiful city trails."

“The first-ever Black History Month hike with a firefighter event was a great way for our public safety team to educate community members about hiking safety, so everyone can enjoy all that Phoenix's parks have to offer and stay safe," Councilwoman Laura Pastor said.

"Hiking with friends and families while learning the history of Black Americans is a great way to celebrate Black History Month and connect with the community," said Vice Mayor Yassamin Ansari added. “I want to thank the Phoenix Fire Department, Phoenix Parks and Recreation, and the United Black Firefighters Association for hosting this dynamic event."

"This event is an excellent way to bring the community together to celebrate Black History Month and learn safety tips to keep in mind while on the hiking trail," said Councilwoman Guardado. "Our residents will have a chance to hear hiking advice directly from our city employees and learn about the dangers of not being prepared for a hike."

"Black history is American history," Councilmember Carlos Garcia added. "I'm proud to represent the diverse community of District 8 and know how much these events bring us together."

Phoenix Fire Chief Mike Duran described the event as a win win for everyone. “Phoenix Fire is proud to work alongside the Parks and Recreation Department to demonstrate how to safely take a hike a do it right." Chief Duran added. “All it takes are a few simple guidelines to make sure your hike is safe and fun. Plus, our firefighters enjoy opportunities to connect with the community."

The city of Phoenix looks forward to next year's event. The Phoenix Fire Department and The City of Phoenix Parks and Recreation Department encourage everyone to take a hike and do it right! You can learn more about hiking options and hiking safety by visiting this webpage.

Original source can be found here.