UK Athletics Launches Athletics Pride Network For Lgbt+ Members Of Its Community
UK Athletics (UKA) has launched a new Athletics Pride network for LGBT+ members of its community in what the NGB says is the first such community in the sport.
The governing body for athletics in the UK says it has been working with a cross-section of individuals in the sport, from coaches, to athletes (at both elite and grassroots levels), to officials, to establish a network to support the LGBT+ community within athletics in the UK.
Working within the Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Terms of Reference of UK Athletics, the network seeks to raise awareness and visibility of LGBT+ people and issues in the sport and create an environment which is open and inclusive for everyone.
“I’m so proud that we have been able to engage with so many keen and motivated individuals across the sport to create this network for LGBT+ people,” said Donna Fraser, Equality, Diversity & Inclusion Lead, UKA. “The network is in its infancy, but we are excited at its possibilities and reaching out to the LGBT+ community and continuing to showcase athletics as a sport for all, whatever your sexuality.
“We as an organisation are committed to the creation and enhancement of an inclusive culture. I’m delighted that we have so many people from within the sport who are driving this forward and asking us to provide support to get this network up and running.”
With current lockdowns imposed in response to the coronavirus pandemic, UKA says the network is a response to the extra barriers that LGBT+ members of the athletics community will be facing in their daily life. The NGB says it aims to provide a community for LGBT+ people, and allies, to connect with and find support in the coming months.
