Hi, I'm Willow Belden and you're listening to Out There, the podcast that explores big questions through intimate stories outdoors.

On this episode, we're going to share with you a story that first aired several years ago, but that is

heartbreakingly relevant again now. It's a story about a man named Drew Lanham. Drew is an ornithologist

and an avid bird watcher. He's also black. We like to think that nature is colorblind, that out in the woods, everyone is equal, that the mountains and rivers and forests are a place to get away from the injustices of society. But it's not so simple. The events that have been unfolding across the United States

over the past weeks have driven home once again that simply being outside carries risks

when you have dark skin. On this episode, producer Jackie Sajiko brings us a story about trying to do something you love outdoors when you are a person of color.

I'll let Jackie take it from here.

When I go camping or hiking, I don't really have to think about it. I just pack up and go. But that's not something everyone can do.

About a year ago, I saw this video called The Rules for the Black Bird Watcher.

I'm not sure how I found it because I am not a bird watcher, but I really liked it.

It's this really funny and sharp look at being black in the outdoors.

And it made me realize that not everyone has the same option to be so carefree.

You know, there are essential tools for birding.

They're your binoculars, your spotting scope, your field guide.

And if you're black, you're going to need probably two or three forms of ID.

Never wear a hoodie.

Ever.

The word for an African American in camouflage is incognito.

The guy in the video is Drew Lanham.

He's a lifelong birdwatcher.

He made this video because being a black birdwatcher is kind of complicated.

Here's Drew in real life.

...