In thermodynamics, heat is expressed by the symbol “q” or “Q”. Ironically, one of Colorado’s most recognizable figures is also known by many as “Q”– but this Q prefers the cold.
Quincy “Q” Shannon is directing his burning hot passion for cold events into a tremendous effort to increase inclusivity in mountainous terrains. In 2018, the reverend, social activist and DSST: Green Valley Ranch Middle School Dean of Students founded Ski Noir 5280 to spark innovation and inspiration for mountain sports and activities among underrepresented – and often underexposed – groups.
“As president of Ski Noir, I work to introduce more new skiers and snowboarders who look like me to the sport, while connecting those who already have a love for the mountains,” he says.
Shannon is a lifelong Denver resident who grew up in the Park Hill neighborhood. “My neighbor actually founded a local Black ski club called Slippers-N-Sliders, that was a chapter of the National Brotherhood of Skiers founded in the 70’s,” he shared with the Travel Noire digital media company in 2022. “From a young age, I was exposed to seeing thousands of professional Black people on Colorado’s slopes. It wasn’t until I was older that I realized I was very privileged to witness this.”
Growing up in Denver’s inner-city environment, he explained to 303 Magazine that his life could have been very different. “Drugs, gangs and violence were things that I had gotten used to seeing, and I was able to escape to the mountains where I had the clarity and vision to realize life was really something much grander,” he said.
This year, the National Brotherhood of Skiers (NBS) will hold its 2024 summit for Black skiers in Big Sky Montana from Feb. 24 to Mar. 2. The summit is full of entertainment with a big, weeklong party featuring concerts, movie nights, apres ski (after ski) happy hours and races. Aside from the fun and winter games, the organization’s mission statement is loud and clear: “To identify, develop and support athletes of color who will win international and Olympic winter sports competitions representing the United States, and to increase participation in winter sports.” Presently, the organization has 23 member athletes representing all four regions, including Olympians and Paralympics.
Ben Finley, age 85, helped organize NBS, and for nearly 50 years the group has helped people find their way to the mountain, learn how to ski and forge long-term friendships throughout an umbrella network of nearly 60 groups throughout the country. Eight of the ski groups are located in the Rocky Mountain region, and four are in Colorado. Ski Noir 5280 is joined by the BIPOC Mountain Collective, Slippers-N-Sliders Ski Club and Ski Ambassadors of Colorado Springs.
Shannon understands the impact on the community. He represents a new generation of ski enthusiasts, and by founding Ski Noir 5280, he is working hard to encourage representation in the mountains. However, he has faced many unexpected challenges, and even getting people to try the sport can be a struggle.
Participation in outdoor recreational activities underwent positive diversification trends in 2022, according to the Outdoor Industry Association’s 2022 Outdoor Participation Trends Report. Covid-era restrictions may have played a role in the surge, as people grew weary of indoor activity and longed to get back outside.
In 2022, Shannon started a company called Neighborhood Uplift to respond to the increased desire for outdoor exploration. The company is developing a youth program to help introduce the next generation to winter sports, and is raising funds to purchase a charter bus that will improve access to the mountains. With over 275 donations, Neighborhood Uplift is just $45,000 away from its goal. Ski Noir 5280 has flourished with partnerships, sponsorships and grassroots fundraising and membership efforts. Nearing 100 members, the organization provides sponsored outdoor gear, discounted lift tickets and season passes, along with regular “Slide Thru Saturday” group trips to some of Colorado’s best ski resorts.
Shannon’s substantial vision is centered around finding new ways to share his lifelong passion for skiing with people who otherwise might not get the chance. He recognizes that socioeconomic status, race and transportation are all reasons why some people don’t venture into the nearby mountains, and he is working to overcome as many barriers as possible. He balances his love for the outdoors with his work as a community, spiritual and educational leader. As dean of students, he bridges the gap between students and administration, amplifying the voices of disempowered students while motivating them to achieve success. As Ski Noir 5280’s president, he bridges the gap between the front range and the highest peaks, diversifying a traditionally homogenous environment.
“My gift is speech…voice…people hearing what I have to say. I am very much aware of that. So whether I am preaching a sermon, talking to a student, doing a poem nationally, or leading a march, it’s all the same gift. It just comes out differently,” he smiles.
For Shannon, love for people is the driving force behind his passion for advocacy; love for the outdoors is the driving force behind his passion for winter recreation. Ski Noir 5280 is the embodiment of both, and it’s creating opportunities for all..
Editor’s Note: For more information visit www.skinoir5280.com.
