By Ben Jealous
The news stays filled with endless examples of hyper-partisanship out of Washington. It is no surprise most people think that’s the only thing happening in Washington. It’s not. People still reach out across party lines to try to get great things done. A few weeks ago, I was at a bipartisan press conference reintroducing the Outdoors For All Act. Members of Congress from both parties spoke. One, a Latina Democrat from the West.
The other, a white Republican from the East. Unfortunately – and surprisingly – most of the press missed the chance to cover the rare and encouraging example of bipartisanship. More striking, though, was the reason both lawmakers had such a passion for the bill. In addition to the benefits for the planet and equity, each was urgently concerned about the need for parks to help their communities combat growing social isolation.
Social isolation drives many social epidemics in America, including our country’s mental health crisis and the silent pandemic of suicide. Community parks can ensure access to natural spaces, which is a human right. the health benefits of getting out in nature are physical and mental, but they also can be social. Especially in more densely populated areas.
