Ep 1. An American Ascent
- January 15, 2017
Afropop: The Ultimate Cultural Exchange is a documentary series that explores the cultural and social aspects of contemporary life in Africa and the diaspora. In season 9, episode 1, titled "An American Ascent," viewers are taken on a journey through the eyes of the first team of African-American climbers to attempt to ascend Denali, the highest peak in North America.
The episode follows the African-American team as they prepare for the climb, which is no small feat. The extreme conditions, the harsh weather, and the technical challenges that climbers face when trying to summit Denali make it one of the most demanding climbs in the world. But this group of climbers is not just trying to conquer the mountain; they are also trying to make a statement about race and representation in the climbing community.
The climbers come from different backgrounds and have different levels of experience, but they share a common goal: to inspire and encourage people of color to participate in outdoor activities and adventure sports. They believe that by breaking down racial barriers and challenging stereotypes, they can create a more inclusive and diverse outdoor community.
Through interviews with the climbers and breathtaking footage of the climb itself, the episode captures the physical and emotional challenges of the expedition. We see the climbers navigating treacherous icefields, battling altitude sickness, and facing their own doubts and fears. But we also see the camaraderie and the sense of purpose that drives them forward.
The episode also explores the historical and cultural context of African-American participation in outdoor activities. From the pioneering efforts of black mountaineer Matthew Henson, who reached the North Pole with Robert Peary in 1909, to the contemporary movements that seek to bring greater diversity to the outdoor industry, the climbers discuss the challenges and achievements of people of color in the outdoors.
Ultimately, the episode presents a powerful message of resilience, determination, and community. Through their ascent of Denali, the African-American climbers demonstrate that diversity and representation in the outdoors are not just important for social justice reasons, but also for the health and vitality of outdoor communities.
"An American Ascent" is a must-watch for anyone interested in adventure sports, social justice, or the intersection of culture and the outdoors. It provides a unique perspective on the challenges and triumphs of one of the most impressive climbing expeditions in recent history, as well as on the wider issues of representation and inclusion that affect outdoor enthusiasts of all backgrounds.
