While significant progress has been made in recent years, there is still much work to be done to eradicate racism from sports, both locally and worldwide. Training and education play a crucial role in combating racism in your sport.
In this blog, we will explore the various ways education can help tackle racism in sports, both on and off the field.
The Power of Role Models
Education in sports should highlight the importance of diverse representation. When young athletes see individuals from various racial backgrounds excelling in their chosen sports, it sends a powerful message that talent knows no boundaries.
Sports clubs should actively promote the achievements of athletes from diverse backgrounds as role models for future generations.
Compulsory Anti-Racism Training
Athletes and coaches should receive compulsory training if they’re part of a sports club. By undertaking training, individuals will understand and appreciate the cultural differences that exist within sports teams and fan bases. As well as this, it will provide a clear statement of right and wrong, and how to challenge racism as and when it occurs. It promotes respect and empathy, and gives people the confidence to be able to challenge racism in all walks of life.
Addressing Unconscious Bias in Sports Media
The media plays a significant role in shaping public perception, including how sports are portrayed. Education programs for sports journalists, broadcasters and even fans, can help them recognise and address their biases, whether they realise they’re being biased or not.
Anti-Racism Campaigns and Initiatives
Sports organisations in the UK should actively support and promote anti-racism campaigns and initiatives by striking partnerships with organisations like Kick It Out and Show Racism the Red Card, which focus on eradicating racism in football and other sports. Schools and sports clubs can engage with these initiatives through educational workshops and awareness campaigns.
Community Engagement and Outreach
Sports organisations can engage with local communities to promote diversity and inclusion. This can be achieved through events, workshops (online and in-person), and programs that encourage underrepresented groups to participate in sports and feel welcomed in sporting environments.
Zero Tolerance for Racism
It goes without saying that sports clubs should reinforce a zero-tolerance policy for racism in sports. Athletes, coaches, and fans should be made aware of the consequences of racist behaviour, including fines, suspensions, and bans.
Start your Education Today
Accelerate Sport have just launched a new eLearning course. The ‘Playing Fair: Challenging Racism in Sport’ online training course is designed for everyone who wants to make their sport a fairer and more inclusive space; aiming to give players and coaches the tools and confidence to challenge racist behaviour when they encounter it.
The course is created and developed by eCoach, leading providers of sports-focused eLearning in the UK. eCoach offer a range of services to the sport industry and beyond, from bespoke module creation, course catalogue, and Learning Experience Platforms.
The course is available for £15 per license; further discounts are available when you bulk-purchase for your organisation.
Click HERE for more information about the course.
The post The Role of Education in Tackling Racism in Sports first appeared on Accelerate Sport.