QUEERY
Queer Unity, Environmental Education, and Recreation for Youth
QUEERY is a free, inclusive nature club designed specifically for queer and questioning middle and high school youth in Southern Minnesota.
Every month, we gather for exciting activities that foster outdoor skills, build friendships, and explore the unique ways queerness can be found in the natural world. From nature journaling, hiking, and birding, to tours of local greenhouses and kayaking, each meetup is an opportunity for adventure and discovery!
Why QUEERY? Building Inclusive Spaces
In the beautiful Cannon River Watershed, we’re working to address a challenge faced by many queer youth, particularly those who are trans and non-binary: finding welcoming and inclusive outdoor activities.
Traditional recreational programs often create barriers by separating activities by gender, leaving many gender-expansive youth feeling unwelcome. It’s so important for queer youth to have a safe space to explore and enjoy nature without the worry of being misgendered or left out!
Plus, there’s a lack of education around queerness in nature, and every young person should learn about the amazing diversity our world has to offer. We want queer youth to see themselves in nature and recognize that their identity is a beautiful part of our planet.
How QUEERY Works: Free, Monthly Meetups
QUEERY is all about fun and discovery. Our meetups are led by our trans non-binary naturalist, creating a space where everyone can feel welcome. And the best part? It’s completely free!
Each month, we gather for engaging activities that not only teach outdoor skills but also encourage participants to forge lasting friendships and see their beauty reflected in nature.
QUEERY is a welcoming space for individuals with disabilities. Please do not shy away from participating! We shape our programming according to the group's varying needs to ensure that activities are accessible for all.
What We’ve Built Together
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Community
Participants have created invaluable connections with fellow queer and questioning peers, fostering a sense of community and acceptance.
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Discovery
Through various activities, participants have discovered nature-based hobbies that deepen their connection to the environment and the wonders it holds.
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Diversity
We've explored numerous instances of queerness in nature, reinforcing the idea that queerness is natural and celebrating the beautiful diversity of life on our planet.
Get Involved!
If you’re a queer or questioning middle or high school youth in Southern Minnesota, we invite you to join us for our next QUEERY meetup! Explore the outdoors, make new friends, and see how your identity beautifully intertwines with the natural world around you.
Questions?
Contact Heron Mahr (they/them), our
Community Engagement Manager
heron@cleanriverpartners.org
(507) 200-0502
We’re grateful for our funders, event sponsors, and partners!
