On June 4, 2020, the EC family put out a statement against hate, racism, injustice and inequality. We want to do our part ensuring that the Canadian equestrian community is a place where every individual can safely and comfortably experience the unique combination of sport and partnership with these amazing animals.
Statements like this mean nothing if they are not followed by action. That is why I want to inform our community of the actions we put in motion to contribute to meaningful, permanent progress.
The first step was to determine who would be responsible for spearheading this initiative within our organization and sport system. We created a working group comprised of EC staff, as well as Provincial/Territorial Sport Organization representatives, that will work to tackle these issues in areas under EC’s jurisdiction. Currently, the working group is scheduled to meet every two weeks.
The members of our working group bring valuable insight to the table, including relevant university degrees, policy work or program management experience supporting sport participation in marginalized communities. However, no matter how long our list of credentials may be, it does not erase one crucial fact: we are all white or white-passing. That is why the next step for our working group at this time must and will continue to be to listen and learn.
Our current priority is making sure we are informed and supported by the appropriate voices. We will contact subject matter experts in race relations, sex and gender, indigenous rights and other marginalized communities. We will also reach out to BIPOC (Black, Indigenous and People of Colour) members of our community, whether that be athletes, coaches, owners, parents or business owners. Whenever and wherever possible, every step forward will be done in consultation with BIPOC who can inform us of their lived experiences or professionals whose expertise is necessary to create long-term change.
After we have collected this initial feedback, the working group will move on to reviewing and revising EC’s foundational structure, programs and services. But this does not mean that the consultation will stop – we will never assume that we have learned all there is to know about the BIPOC experience in Canadian equestrian sport. Listening and learning will be an ongoing process.
While progress might be slow, it will be certain, and we will endeavor to keep you up to date on the proceedings. In the meantime, I encourage you to familiarize yourself with EC’s Safe Sport policies and procedures at www.equestrian.ca/about/safe-sport.
I want to end with a message that you have heard from us before and will continue to hear throughout this process:
Reach out. We’re listening.
Sincerely,
Caroline Soble
Communications Coordinator
csoble@equestrian.ca