DECEMBER 2021 THE RIDER /13 Prioritizing Racial Equity, Diversity & Inclusion In Canadian Equestrian Sport


Ottawa, ON, Nov. 23, 2021 – As a national sport organization, Equestrian Canada (EC) takes its responsibility to address racial and ethnic inequities very seri- ously and views this as a critical systemic issue that requires atten- tion, resources, and decisive ac- tion. 2021 has


seen a


prioritization of Racial Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (REDI) at EC with a new coordinator of REDI and Safe Sport hired this fall to continue to implement ini- tiatives across the organization and equestrian sport nationwide. EC initiated a REDI pro-


gram at the beginning of 2021 and later partnered with experts, The Inclusion Project (TIP) in May to further shape its goals and an effective and actionable plan. The partnership with TIP has strengthened EC’s intercul- tural competence and provided guidance in understanding the scope and impact of the long- term work ahead. The work began with com-


munity forums being held in Jan- uary followed by a readiness assessment in the spring where input was provided regarding in- equalities in Canada’s equestrian sport landscape. Specific recom- mendations from individuals with lived experience were pro- vided that helped shape many of


the initiatives created in the REDI action plan including in- creasing representation of visible minorities and under-represented diverse/racial/ethnic


groups,


preparing coaches and officials to effectively handle situations of equestrian participation; auditing and enhancing policies; and re- viewing and revising materials used in marketing and communi- cations to be more inclusive. Next, was an audit where


TIP was given full access to EC’s external and internal engagement policies to be reviewed for lan- guage, completeness and mes- saging that relayed safety and inclusivity. Completed in August, EC was appraised at an Inac- tive level where REDI has not been systemically imple- mented and diversity and a culture of inclusion have not previously been a part of or- ganizational goals. After pre- senting the findings of the audit to Sport Canada and its Board of Directors, the EC team committed to using the important learnings to move the plan forward. With the knowledge


from the assessment and audit highlighting the magni- tude of work required, the hiring process for a REDI coordinator was initiated.


The summer and early fall saw TIP lead the creation of the job description and hiring process along with sitting on the hiring panel. On November 29, Laurie


Ehrman will join EC in the newly created role of Coordinator, REDI & Safe Sport. An immi- grant to Canada, Ehrman has her master’s in law and is experi- enced in safe sport implementa- tion within national


organizations. In her role, she will engage with TIP to enhance training, continue policy updates, support community develop- ment, and develop programs to ensure diversity and racial equity


in all areas of activity within EC. Ehrman is also tasked with coor- dinating the implementation of policies and initiatives focused on increasing access to eques- trian sport. Other movements forward


sport


in areas of the plan this year in- clude benchmarking, training, and data collection. Earlier in November, identity questions were added to the 2022 sport li- cence application and renewals release for next year. The volun- tary collection is a step in assess- ing the representation of individuals across the competi- tive equestrian community. Throughout the year, EC leader-


ship, staff, and board have en- gaged in safe sport training and Indigenous cultural training ses- sions with the action plan includ- ing the roll out of further anti-racist, diversity, equity, and inclusion education. Even with initial progress


being made, it is evident that much work remains to be done to create a more inclusive and rep- resentative organization and sport. EC is encouraged by the initial advancements, however, remains steadfast in its commit- ment to prioritize racial diversity, equity, and inclusion and to take progressive action to create trans- formational change.


The whole of EC looks for-


ward to continuing along the path that was started earlier this year. In addition to their partnership with TIP, they will support and collaborate on any additional ac- tivities in the community that support REDI and Safe Sport ini- tiatives in the years to come. Equestrian Canada believes


the future of equestrian sport in our country is one that is safe and inclusive; where everyone is wel- come and has room to learn, grow and achieve their potential. For further questions, com-


ments or concerns please contact communications@equestrian.ca.


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