Date of Award
5-2024
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Master of Parks, Recreation and Tourism Management (MPRTM)
Department
Parks, Recreation and Tourism Management
Committee Chair/Advisor
Dr Aby Sene-Harper
Committee Member
Dr Elizabeth Baldwin
Committee Member
Dr Harrison P. Pinckney IV
Abstract
Hunting is a significant cultural, economic, and wildlife management activity in the United States. However, African Americans remain underrepresented among hunters, with limited research to understand their perspectives and experiences. Hence, this study employed an exploratory focus group method design to profile African American hunters' real and perceived experiences, traditions, and needs. The interviews were conducted with 67 African American hunters from all regions across the country. The interview data were analyzed through thematic coding to construct key themes. Key findings from this study revealed that hunting is a strong tradition within African American communities that has been passed down through generations. Private land is preferred for hunting over public land, yet access to private land among African American hunters remains limited. Additionally, hunting serves multiple purposes other than recreation. For many of the participants, joining hunting clubs helped them buy or lease land that could be used for their hunting activities. Recommendations include federal and state-level fish and wildlife agencies working closely with organizations and non-profits serving African American hunters to run hunting programs. In addition, there is the need to increase land access for African American hunters, establish mentorship programs, and develop outreach initiatives for youth. Integrating hunting and wildlife education into school curricula, funding clubs and outdoor programs for minorities, and implementing programs to combat stereotypes are also crucial steps.
Recommended Citation
Adesawe, Ezekiel, "Understanding the Traditions and Experiences of African American Hunters" (2024). All Theses. 4281.
https://tigerprints.clemson.edu/all_theses/4281