Stop Racism in Sport

Whether you’re an athlete, coach, official, parent, or organizational leader – anti-racism is something we all have the opportunity to learn, practice, and strengthen. Every action, conversation, and commitment to being anti-racist helps create environments where diversity is celebrated and everyone can find belonging!

But what exactly does being anti-racist in sport mean? It means listening and offering support when minorities speak up, reporting incidents to protect others from future harm, educating ourselves and others about systemic racism, and advocating for real change.

Anti-racism is a team effort. Together, we have the power to take the offensive against hate and discrimination, spark lasting cultural change, and build better sport for all.

Meet Our Ambassadors

“Anti-racism is a team effort.”

– Ian Dicker, Athlete

A person’s race or background shouldn’t hold them back from participating and enjoying amateur sport. But racism can affect a person’s confidence, wellbeing, and drive them away from a sport they may have loved. Athletes have a shared responsibility to create environments where everyone feels valued.

“As coaches, we need to protect our athletes.”

– Kilabuk Qupee, Coach

A coach’s duty is to protect all athletes. Which means reporting racism, shutting down discriminatory language, and fostering inclusivity at every level so athletes feel comfortable raising concerns. By setting clear expectations that everyone is treated with respect and ensuring athletes are given equal opportunities to develop their skills, we can all participate with confidence and have fun!

“Officiating is about fairness.”

– Karla Yepez, Official

Officials have a responsibility to be impartial – which means applying the rules consistently and fairly. Reporting incidents of discrimination, modelling respectful behaviour, shutting down marginalization and favoritism, and prioritizing the safety of all participants are just some of the ways officials can make a positive, lasting impact.

“If you witness racism, speak up and shut it down.”

– Ella Jacque, Athlete

No one should have to question whether they belong because of their race or background. By listening when minorities speak out, using our voices to report harassment, and making an effort to be more inclusive, together we can build stronger teams, form memorable experiences, and create sport environments where everyone belongs.

“As parents, we need to set an example.”

– George Mammen, Parent

Parents play an important role in ensuring everyone feels respected and accepted in amateur sport. Educating themselves and their kids about unconscious biases, systemic racism, and being mindful goes a long way. We encourage parents to speak up if they hear racist remarks at a game or a match, help us improve safety practices by filing reports, and inspire kids to enjoy themselves and have fun rather than focusing on winning.

“Discrimination is a loser’s game.”

– Sanchita Chakraborty, Athlete

Everyone loses when prejudice, racism, exclusion, or harassment become part of sport. Refusing to engage in or tolerate racist language, filing reports so unacceptable behaviour doesn’t go unchecked, and treating everyone with dignity regardless of race or background are just some of the ways athletes can demonstrate anti-racism in sport.

Reporting Racism

Amateur sport is at its best when everyone feels safe, respected, and confident to be themselves. So, if you hear racist comments, witness mistreatment based on someone’s race or background, or experience discrimination yourself, we encourage you to report it.

Reporting allows you to protect others from future harm, helps us identify patterns and put better policies in place, and ultimately creates safer sport environments for everyone!

Our Safe Sport Complaint Mechanism aims to provide an impartial, transparent, and effective process for addressing concerns relating to prejudice, stereotyping, and other maltreatment.

And remember, reporting is supporting better sport for all!

Learn MoreFile a Complaint

Contact Us

Connect with the team driving sport forward in Newfoundland and Labrador – reach out to Sport NL for guidance, collaboration, and support!

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