The North Face presents Ascend - Reframing disability in the outdoors VIDEO

Vasu Sojitra is an athlete who has climbed peaks like the Grand Teton and climbs and skis peaks in Montana's Beartooth and Bridger mountain ranges. He does so with one leg, no prosthetic, and unassisted. You might be tempted call him inspirational for his accomplishments in sport, but he challenges us to take a deeper look. Here's what he has to say about Ascend:

 "This film is not about me and my accomplishments. My life is so much more than my achievements. As a Disabled person of colour that has the privilege of social capital and my identity, I've finally realized that my value and my worth are beyond the mountains I summit and the lines I ski. We as humans can transcend these ways of finding meaning in life, not to say many have not. Where I find meaning and purpose is making sure I surround myself with people and places I care deeply about regardless of the summit; people and places that foster joy for me and everyone around me.

 To me, being a Disabled person of colour mean "WE" not "me". Disabled folks and folks of colour have been here and we will always be here. We are resilient to the core no matter what tries to get in our way. We provide access to each other which affects everyone. Our mindset can change the world and has for the better. Our existence is our resistance. Because more access makes everything more accessible for everybody!"