Biography:
Rosemary Saal is an American mountaineer who has made significant contributions to the field of outdoor exploration. Born in Seattle, WA, Saal developed a passion for climbing at a young age. At just 12 years old, she started honing her skills at Smith Rock State Park in Oregon, after joining Passages Northwest (now GOLD – Girls Outdoor Leadership Development). This early exposure to the world of mountaineering ignited a lifelong love for adventure and a determination to break down racial barriers in the outdoor community.
Saal’s first major achievement came in 2013 when she became a member of the first all African American climbing team to summit Denali, the highest peak in North America. This groundbreaking expedition shattered stereotypes and paved the way for future generations of climbers of color. Saal’s involvement in this historic ascent showcased her resilience, strength, and determination.
Building on this success, Saal continued to push boundaries and challenge societal norms. In 2018, at the age of 25, she served as a technical co-leader for the first all-Black U.S. expedition team to summit Mount Kilimanjaro. This achievement further solidified her position as a trailblazer in the world of mountaineering and inspired countless individuals from underrepresented communities to pursue their own outdoor adventures.
But Saal’s mountaineering journey didn’t stop there. On May 12, 2022, she made history once again as part of the first all-Black U.S. expedition team to successfully reach the summit of Mount Everest. This remarkable accomplishment not only showcased Saal’s exceptional climbing abilities but also served as a powerful symbol of empowerment and possibility for black people worldwide.
Beyond her personal achievements, Saal has been a steadfast advocate for diversity and inclusion in the outdoor community. Through her volunteer work with the GOLD program and her use of climbing expeditions as a platform for raising awareness, she has actively worked to break down the racial barriers that have hindered access to the great outdoors for minority groups. In an interview with the Washington Post, Saal emphasized the intentional lack of access for black people in outdoor spaces, stating, When Hillary first summited [Everest], black people couldn’t even vote in this country. Her advocacy efforts have been instrumental in promoting equal opportunities and inspiring a new generation of adventurers.
Awards:
– Named Backpacker Magazine Heroes of the Year 2014 (citation needed)
Filmography:
– Expedition Denali (2014, Outside TV)
– An American Ascent (2016, 66 minutes, George Potter & Andy Adkins)