Understanding Equity Diversity and Inclusion by Exploring the Past

Understanding Equity Diversity and Inclusion by Exploring the Past

A common saying in the health care literature is, “every system is perfectly designed to get the results it gets.” This is especially true for our sport and recreation systems. While COVID-19 has indeed exacerbated many issues associated with equity, diversity and inclusion (EDI), concerns in this area are not new.

What this means for Alberta’s sporting system — despite the commonly repeated narrative that things were better in the past — is that there is no ‘golden era’ to return to. Instead, there are only a number of interconnected moments, decisions, policies, and programs that we can learn about and build upon. It is therefore essential that we stop romanticizing the sporting practices of the past and begin to understand how they have contributed to the EDI issues we face today.

This presentation is intended to do just that. By tracing some of the policies and practices that have created the conditions for the EDI issues we face today, the information is intended to challenge our assumptions about the sporting practices of the past, and in doing so, act as a starting point for creating more equitable, diverse and inclusive sporting futures.

This session will include 1 hour lecture with 30 minutes for Q & A/Comments.

Speaker Bio: LISA TINK (she/her) is currently a Postdoctoral Research Associate in the Faculty of Kinesiology, Sport, and Recreation at the University of Alberta. Prior to returning to academics, Lisa worked as a Director in the Government of Alberta’s Recreation and Physical Activity Division and Manager at the Alberta Recreation and Parks Association. Lisa is also the Co-Director of In Situ Change Strategies – a participatory consulting firm that works with a diverse range of community organizations.