Penn State Sustainability

Penn State Sustainability to screen two short films on access to the outdoors

The films, 'Ascend' and 'Resistance Climbing,' profile opportunities for historically underserved groups to enjoy nature, build community

A Palestinian climber featured in “Resistance Climbing,” a short film profiling an American climber and journalist’s trip to meet a small group of Palestinians who have largely taught themselves how to rock climb in their quest to enjoy time in the outdoors. The film will be shown as part of a larger program offered by Penn State Sustainability emphasizing the importance of everyone having safe and welcoming spaces to enjoy time in nature. Credit: Courtesy of Reel Rock. All Rights Reserved.

UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. — At 7 p.m. on Wednesday, March 5, Penn State Sustainability’s “Intersections” film program will host its next online film screening, which will focus on efforts to allow historically underserved groups to gain more access to the outdoors and nature-based pursuits.  

The online screening includes two short films: “Resistance Climbing,” about a group of Palestinians who create a makeshift climbing gym and learn to rock climb, and “Ascend,” about a group of Afghani young women who learn climbing in defiance of the Taliban and flee to the U.S. for the freedom to continue their education and to continue to climb. 

Following the films, there will be a panel discussion featuring Penn State student leaders in the outdoors, as well as faculty experts on building more inclusive and welcoming outdoor spaces that encourage everyone to reconnect with nature and enjoy nature-based hobbies. 

The screening is free and open to all. Pre-registration is required at this link

Last Updated February 24, 2025

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