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Special to The Advocate
In celebration of Black History Month 2026, First Seed Sown, as part of the City of Malden’s Great Malden Outdoors campaign, announced the Matthew Henson Tribute Trail Run & Walk — a community-centered outdoor event designed to celebrate Black history, redefine who belongs outside and help close the “Adventure Gap” in outdoor recreation. Taking place on February 21 at the Middlesex Fells Reservation, one of the most accessible trail networks in Massachusetts, the event pays tribute to Matthew Henson, the often-overlooked Black explorer who in 1909 was among the first humans to reach the North Pole. While Henson’s legacy is rarely taught, his achievements stand as powerful proof that Black leadership and excellence have long been part of outdoor exploration, even in the coldest conditions on earth.
Following the run and walk, participants will gather at the Malden Senior Center for a catered brunch and, thanks to funding from the Black Economic Council of Massachusetts, a featured presentation by National Geographic historian James Edward Mills. Mills, who coined the term “The Adventure Gap,” has produced extensive work on Matthew Henson’s life and legacy and will share insights on Black exploration, representation and belonging in the outdoors. The event is presented in partnership with leading Black, Indigenous and People of Color (BIPOC) outdoor organizations and brands — including Black Men Run (Boston), Outdoor Afro (Boston), Latino Outdoors (Boston), The Outside Social Club, Pioneers Run Crew, Outside Mind, and The Joy Trip Project — collectively working to build equity, visibility and joy in outdoor spaces.
People of color remain significantly underrepresented in outdoor recreation, a disparity known as the Adventure Gap, where participation does not reflect national population demographics. Cultural narratives, including those within Black communities, that say outdoor recreation and cold weather adventure are “not for us” have further reinforced these barriers. The Matthew Henson Tribute Trail Run & Walk aims to change that narrative by honoring history, building community and creating accessible entry points to outdoor experiences.
“This event is about reclaiming our history, reshaping cultural perceptions, and showing – together – that we belong outside,” said First Seed Sown CEO Darren “DJ” Josey, who is the event organizer. “If Matthew Henson could brave the frozen Arctic, we can certainly come together for a February run or walk in Massachusetts.”
Following the run and walk, participants will gather at the Malden Senior Center for a catered brunch and, thanks to funding from the Black Economic Council of Massachusetts, a featured presentation by National Geographic historian James Edward Mills. Mills, who coined the term “The Adventure Gap,” has produced extensive work on Matthew Henson’s life and legacy and will share insights on Black exploration, representation and belonging in the outdoors.
“Our primary mission at the Joy Trip Project is to share compelling narratives that offer a thorough and comprehensive exploration of American history as seen through the lens of remarginalized communities thriving in outdoor recreation,” said Mills. “The story of Matthew Henson lies squarely at the intersection of both. We’re excited to reveal the under-reported achievement of this remarkable character whom we so often forget.”
The Matthew Henson Tribute Trail Run & Walk is free and open to all, and a subsidized $10 ticket, thanks to First Seed Sown and Malden’s DEI Team, to the brunch and presentation is available for purchase. This event is welcoming to BIPOC participants and allies alike. Together, the event seeks to honor hidden history, overcome barriers to entry and build a more inclusive future where access to the outdoors is recognized as essential to happiness, health and community well-being.
For more information about the event and the Great Malden Outdoors campaign, please visit TheGreatMaldenOutdoors.com/Events.
