Register now for the upcoming Diversity in Sports Conference, presented by Ontario University Athletics (OUA), taking place from June 23rd to 25th.

REGISTER | www.diversityinsports.ca

Funded in part by the Government of Ontario’s Ministry of Tourism, Culture, and Sport, and with additional support from numerous partner organizations, this highly anticipated inaugural event will focus on promoting equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) in amateur sports for emerging leaders, sport administrators, coaches, and officials.

“A safe sport environment is one that is equitable, diverse and inclusive – an environment that protects athletes and welcomes participants of all abilities, from all walks of life,” said Neil Lumsden, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Sport. “This is why the Ontario government is proud to support Ontario University Athletics’ Diversity in Sports Conference, which is bringing key actors of this sector together to learn, share ideas and network with people who have a common goal of creating a stronger sport culture.”

Taking place at the Hilton Toronto Airport Hotel & Suites in Mississauga, Ont., the Diversity in Sports Conference will create opportunities for attendees to participate in workshops, training sessions, and more; offer various resources and strategies to help individuals foster an inclusive environment across the amateur sports landscape; and provide networking opportunities to connect with like-minded individuals and build relationships that support EDI efforts.

“We recognize that creating a diverse, equitable, and inclusive amateur sports environment requires ongoing dedication and starts with individual commitment,” said OUA President & CEO Gord Grace, “which is why the OUA is so pleased to be presenting this first-of-its-kind conference in Canada.”

Among the topics to be included as part of the exciting conference schedule are:

• Building Relationships with Cultural Sport Groups to Strength Amateur Sports;
• Attracting and Retaining Women and Girls in Sports (On and Off the Field)
• Accessibility and Inclusion: Redefining Sport Participation in Canada
• The Blueprint: Navigating Challenges in the Canadian Sport System
• Building a Culture: Importance of True Sport & Responsible Coaching Movement in the Canadian Amateur Sports Community;
• Use of Language: Using Racial/Homophobic Slurs on the Playing Field;
• The Impact of Racism: Access and Barriers to Engagement in Amateur Sports;
• Embracing Diversity: Exploring and Navigating the Experiences of 2SLGBTQI+ in the Sports Industry;
• Diverse Hiring: Creating a Culture of Change and Attracting Diverse Talent;
• What is Allyship?

Added Shauna Bookal, the OUA’s Manager of Equity, Diversity, Inclusion, & Student Experience, “We look forward to bringing together representatives from organizations across the country, while offering a dynamic slate of meaningful opportunities for important learning and growth”.

Registration for the Diversity in Sports Conference is open at diversityinsports.ca.

(Source: Media Release, OUA, June 12, 2023, Burlington, ON.)