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DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION IN SNOWSPORTS

We need more than just words.  Actions are needed to make real change.  

The death of George Floyd and the global BLM movement has required all sporting bodies to look carefully at how they operate and whether they are genuinely inclusive and open.  Unfortunately, inequalities do exist in society, however through history sport has been essential in removing barriers and overcoming prejudice. BLM tells us that more needs to be done.

When I joined GB Snowsport, I wanted to bring change within the organisation but also externally.  We know that Snowsports can appeal to anyone, reach everyone and be inclusive, but we must increase our efforts to make sure that this really happens. We are going in the right direction, but we all need to challenge ourselves and to ask how we can do better.

We have to continue to change perceptions of snowsport for everyone in the country. Our education programmes and the work behind the scenes with different organisations is about making sure we become a more inclusive sport. The events of the last few weeks must further our resolve to work with the wider snowsport community and to deliver the change that we are all looking for.

To compete at the highest level in any sport is incredibly difficult so athletes should never face additional barriers of gender, age or race.  This means we have to be accessible, supportive, caring and offer the same opportunity for everyone, from their first interest in snowsports to standing on a podium. 

As an organisation we have to listen and want to hear what you have to say. So, please let us have any suggestions or thoughts you have on diversity and inclusion. We want to use your knowledge and experience to help keep developing snowsports for everyone.  Please email – media@gbsnowsport.com

Vicky Gosling