Affinity Sessions

Join ASCEND for FREE climbing sessions dedicated to BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, People of Color) and QFTW (Queer, Femme, Trans, Women) individuals. These sessions provide a safe and inclusive space for climbers who may feel underrepresented or marginalized within the sport.

Why ASCEND Hosts Affinity Sessions

Creating a welcoming environment: We believe everyone deserves to feel comfortable and supported in the climbing community.

Empowering underrepresented groups: By providing dedicated spaces, we aim to empower BIPOC and QFTW climbers and encourage their participation in the sport.

We understand that everyone has different perspectives. Our goal is to create a welcoming environment for all, and we hope you'll respect the importance of these sessions for our community. We do our absolute best to keep our hours updated and proactively communicate when Affinity Sessions occur, so you're not caught off guard. Our goal is not to upset you, it's to help others, so please try and keep that in mind.

How Affinity Sessions Help

Building community: Participants can connect with like-minded climbers and find support.

Overcoming barriers: These sessions can help break down barriers and make climbing more accessible.

Safe space: During Affinity Sessions, participants can come to the sport of climbing feeling a little more relaxed, with a unique sense of safety and comfort.

Why They're Free

We want to remove financial barriers and make climbing accessible to everyone.

Combining Women and LGBTQ+

Our society has a history of sidelining women and LGBTQ+ individuals in similar ways. This approach allows us to offer more frequent sessions while catering to the needs of both communities.

How To Attend

• ERIE: Typically, monthly on the 2nd Saturday night of each month from 6-8p. Each month will rotate between BIPOC and QFTW sessions.

• PITTSBURGH: Typically, offered on the 1st (BIPOC) + 3rd (QFTW) Saturday each month from 6-8p. Events rotate each month between South Side and Point Breeze.

• Please register for session below or by contacting the front desk.

• These FREE climbing sessions are intended only for those in our community who identify with these affinity groups. Rental gear included.