Rivers of Steel to host Women’s History Month Programs March 13 and 27

The Tuesday evening events will explore various ways in which contemporary women have found inspiration from their relationships with the outdoors – and from the pioneering women who preceded them. With discussion topics designed to highlight both the commonalities and the unique aspects of the panelists’ wide-ranging experiences, audience members will be encouraged to contribute to the conversation.

“From its earliest days, Rivers of Steel has worked to enhance outdoor recreational spaces throughout our National Heritage Area,” said Brianna Horan, manager of tourism and visitor experience, “contributing to the restoration of natural areas previously impacted by industry, and helping individuals to rediscover the wonder of the outdoors.”

“These women are truly inspirational,” she continued. “It’s delightful to be able to offer our guests – both women and men – the opportunity to connect with the dynamic experiences of each panelist, while sharing unique, personal tales of their own adventures outdoors.”

The March 13 program, Opening Doors to the Outdoors, explores the historic legacy of women advocating on behalf of the environment and park spaces, as well as current day efforts to protect and connect with natural areas.

The March 27 event, How Getting Outside Changed My Life, features storytelling and examines the ways in which spending time outdoors has enhanced the lives of five women.  Attendees at this program have the opportunity to record their own oral histories, sharing the impact the outdoors has had on their lives. Interviews will be housed in the Rivers of Steel archives.

Both events are free and open to the public. They will be held at The Brew House, 711 S. 21st Street, Pittsburgh 15203, from 7:00 to 9:00 p.m. Light refreshments will be provided. Street parking and bike racks are available.

Opening Doors to the Outdoors: A Legacy of Advocacy and Play
March 13, 7-9 p.m. at The Brew House, 711 S. 21st Street, South Side

Join us in celebrating pioneering women – from the trailblazers who were early advocates for natural spaces and environmental protections to the women of today who carry on their legacy.

Our panelists will consider the impact of regional icon Rachel Carson on the environmental movement, the appreciation of nature as a response to industrialization, the land grants by society women that formed Frick and Schenley Parks, and how author Annie Dillard’s childhood play in Pittsburgh’s East End may have influenced her groundbreaking work, Pilgrim at Tinker Creek, among others considerations.

Inspired by the legacies of women who have opened doors to the outdoors, our panelists represent the women of today – advocates and scientists, academics and athletes, executives and volunteers – all inspired to improve the quality of life in our region and make it possible for us to continue to enjoy our natural places.

How Getting Outside Changed My Life: An Intimate Conversation
March 27, 7-9 p.m. at The Brew House, 711 S. 21st Street, South Side

Join us for an evening with women who credit trails and time spent outside with transforming their lives. More conversation than presentation, the program features stories of women whose experiences highlight the aspirational and the accessible capacity of trails to enhance our quality of life. From traveling great distances and building communities around shared passions to advocating for accessibility for all, these women’s journeys reveal the power of making personal connections to the natural world.

About the Programs
Both programs will be held at The Brew House at 711 S. 21st Street in the South Side, and will be emceed by Amy Camp of Cycle Forward. The events are open to all ages and genders. Doors will open at 7 p.m., with the panel discussions beginning at 7:30. Attendees are invited to view the current gallery exhibit before the program begins. Light refreshments will be provided. Street parking and bike racks are available.

This project was financed in part by a grant from the Community Conservation Partnerships Program, the Heritage Areas Program under the administration of the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, Bureau of Recreation and Conservation.

For more information on the series, please visit www.riversofsteel.com or contact Carly McCoy at 412.464.4020, ext. 43 or by emailing cmccoy@riversofsteel.com.

About Rivers of Steel
Founded on the principles of heritage development, community partnership, and a reverence for the region’s natural and shared resources, Rivers of Steel strengthens the economic and cultural fabric of western Pennsylvania by fostering dynamic initiatives and transformative experiences.

Through its attractions and programs, Rivers of Steel actively promotes education and heritage tourism, highlighting western Pennsylvania’s assets to regional, national and international audiences. Behind-the-scenes, Rivers of Steel works with a diverse network of community partners to support grassroots initiatives and the new regional economy.

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