Most people start the new year with resolutions they'll likely feel shitty about in a few weeks. Some of us have set intentions, which can be a more attainable approach to being the best versions of ourselves. While I have cultivated a practice of reflection and growth, I also believe that if it's not broken, don't fix it.
That's why at Coalition Snow we've decided that in 2023 we're just going to keep being us. Think of this as a YOU'RE WELCOME to our greatest fans and our most annoying trolls.
Here's what you can expect from us in 2023:
1. Showcasing naked bodies: You'll see more nudity than you will women "hucking their meat off cliffs" (an actual request from a troll), whether that be on our Shred the Patriarchy apparel, weekly Free The Nip Friday posts on Instagram, or new to 2023, on a topsheet graphic for a pair of skis (that's a teaser BBs for what's coming out next season). We do this purposefully to push the boundaries of what is acceptable in snowsports. The culture of snowsports continues to be shaped by a white, male, straight perspective, and we're offering up something from a queer female gaze. It's a grand—and ironically radical in the outdoors—gesture of refusing shame and rather being in love with our bodies and what they can do for us.
2. Being comfortable with being (and making you) uncomfortable: Women are taught to go along to get along. To smile in all situations, to stay small. To be nice. This behavior ultimately reinforces racism, sexism, all the isms. If we truly want to see things change, we have to be willing to say what needs to be said and to not be liked, particularly as white women with privilege. We need to reconceptualize who we're being nice to and who will ultimately suffer because of our insistence not to rock the boat. For more on this, read White Women: Everything You Already Know About Your Own Racism and How to Do Better.
3. Creating an intentionally inclusive and safe community: While we're expanding our experiences and offerings, like our Far Out trips and shop in Reno, one thing will always remain the same: we're going to do our best to create a welcoming, safe, and inclusive space. We won't get it right all the time, and we're counting on you to hold us accountable. We are committed to centering the experiences of the people who have traditionally remained in the margins in snowsports and the outdoors. We hope that you can find community in the Coalition Clubhouse, through our Backcountry Beta events with TREW Gear, and with us IRL. If you have ideas of things we can do, let us know. We have a lot planned in 2023 and we're excited for you to be a part of it.
When we show up as our most authentic and real selves, great things can happen. Let's make 2023 about that.
~ Jen Gurecki, she/her, CEO of Coalition Snow
