Introducing the Just Add Water Project and Film Festival

Back in February, Orvis signed on to support the Just Add Water Project, a new effort to break down barriers to the outdoors. Originally conceived as a traveling film tour–something that Covid-19 made impossible–the Just Add Water Project has been re-imagined as a series of online film showings and discussions. The goal is to increase representation of diverse and traditionally under-represented populations in outdoor media, which will promote participation in outdoor pursuit by folks who will now see themselves in the stars of these films.

The Just Add Water Project holds at its core the belief that representation matters. It matters because we need and deserve to see a wider spectrum of ability and identity in the outdoors. Not just for the “epic” far away trips but also for the adventures that are close to home. Lack of representation is a symptom of the deep roots of injustice. We have the opportunity to take a step toward creating the culture we want to see for future generations.

The hosts of the Just Add Water Project are Faith Briggs and Adam Edwards. A documentary filmmaker and avid outdoorswoman, Faith has long been focused on diversity and representation in her work. Adam is a former river guide, a hardcore kayaker, and all-around outdoors-lover. Their roles will be to invite people to try new things in a fun and safe environment while also starting conversations and listening to stories, aspirations, apprehension and remembrances around time spent in the great outdoors.

The Just Add Water Project events will be held on the next four Thursdays at 8 p.m. Eastern/5 p.m. Western. The first featured film–showing this Thursday, June 18–is “Una Razón para Pescar” (A Reason to Fish). Dan Diez’s passion for fishing is rooted in a story that involves traditions born in Cuba, the search for a new home, and a relationship with water that symbolizes a freedom often taken for granted. The film premiere will be followed by a Q&A with Just Add Water Project guides Faith Briggs and Adam Edwards, Dan Diez, Orvis president Simon Perkins, Orvis-endorsed guide Alvin Dedeaux, and Katie Guerin from City Kids.

To sign up for these online events, visit the Just Add Water Project homepage.