I want to take a moment to celebrate and highlight the stories of trailblazing Black climbers. These are the people who have not only made their mark on climbing but also paved the way for others to see themselves in this sport. Their journeys are powerful reminders of what’s possible when you push past boundaries and claim your place in spaces that weren’t always built for you.

Let’s start with one of the most recognizable names in climbing: Kai Lightner. If you don’t know Kai, let me tell you, this guy has been dominating the sport since he was a kid. He started climbing competitively at six years old and quickly became a force to be reckoned with. What’s remarkable about Kai isn’t just his climbing achievements—though there are plenty of those—but also his advocacy. He’s been vocal about the importance of diversity in climbing and has used his platform to inspire and mentor the next generation of climbers of color. He’s showing the world that being a great athlete isn’t just about physical strength—it’s about lifting others up, too.

Another name you need to know is Margo Hayes. While Margo’s not Black herself, it’s important to talk about the Black women climbers she’s inspired—because representation can ripple outward. That’s why women like Brittany Leavitt are so vital. Brittany is one of the co-founders of Brown Girls Climb, an organization that’s working to build community and create visibility for women of color in climbing. She’s an educator, an advocate, and a climber who’s actively reshaping what the climbing world looks like.

And then there’s Phil Henderson. Phil is one of those names that doesn’t always get the spotlight, but his contributions to climbing—and to the outdoor industry more broadly—are huge. Phil has decades of experience as a climber and mountaineer. He’s summited peaks all over the world and has been part of groundbreaking expeditions, including an all-Black team that attempted to summit Everest. Phil’s work is about more than personal achievement; it’s about creating access and opportunities for others. He’s been instrumental in mentoring young climbers and advocating for diversity in outdoor spaces.

Of course, we can’t talk about trailblazing climbers without mentioning Ashima Shiraishi. Though she’s not Black, her story parallels so many of the same themes: breaking into a sport that didn’t always feel welcoming, achieving incredible things at a young age, and inspiring people around the globe. Her story reminds us how powerful representation can be, even if it’s not a perfect reflection of our own.

The common thread in all these stories? Perseverance. These climbers didn’t just climb literal mountains—they overcame the social and systemic barriers that have historically made outdoor spaces less accessible to people of color. And by doing that, they’ve changed the narrative of what climbing looks like.

So, how can we honor these trailblazers? First, by telling their stories. By sharing their names, their accomplishments, and their impact on our community. Second, by continuing the work they’ve started. That means mentoring others, advocating for diversity, and creating more spaces where Black climbers can thrive.

Representation matters because it shows us what’s possible. When we see people who look like us breaking barriers, it inspires us to dream bigger. To climb higher. To believe that we belong—not just in climbing gyms or on the crag, but in every space we step into. Let’s keep celebrating these trailblazers and let their stories fuel us as we continue carving our own paths.