One thing I found helpful was involving LGBTQ+ groups to seek their input on expertise on what is most important to their members. This was in a university setting so it was easy to involve the Pride society, but reaching out to LGBTQ+ groups in the local area, will be useful in any sports setting. This also helps to get the buy-in of the group and they can communicate what you are doing to make your activities/ venue inclusive and safe.

To ensure LGBTQ+ representation and inclusion in sports programs: Clear Policies: Implement a nondiscrimination policy that specifically includes sexual orientation and gender identity. Diversity Training: Provide sensitivity training for coaches and staff to create a welcoming environment. Celebrate LGBTQ+ Athletes: Host events and recognize LGBTQ+ athletes and allies. Building an inclusive culture requires consistency and visible support from leadership. Inclusivity thrives when everyone feels valued and respected.

I do not believe this should be a focus for a sports program. This is a political standpoint and as a sport, everyone who enjoys the sport should be included and welcome to approach the organisation and program as a whole. In short, if you enjoy the activities of the program, you should be welcome to enjoy it alongside anyone else who wants to support it.

If the sport being lead is respected to its truest form, then specific representation should not be the primary concern. The opportunity for all should be evaluated on the attributes each individual provides. Leadership, accountability, respected, collaboration, and performance are a few of many attributes that should be evaluated. If these and other metrics are obtained, then the individual should have the opportunity to participate without trepidation.

A través de Google My Business promocionamos acciones a nivel LGTBI, pero también hacemos concienciación y talleres dedicados a la comunidad. La normalización es lo más importante, por eso en nuestro centro conviven personas de diversidad de género y orientación sexual, y se sienten seguros en un ambiente saludable. ¡No pongamos más impedimentos nosotros mismos!

LGBTQ+ inclusion should be a natural process, rather than a KPI, as I’ve seen some organisations do, for the sake of doing it. Include the best person for their capabilities and not because of their sexual orientation… vice versa, do not exclude the best candidate due to their orientation, and everything will fall in place thereafter.

As in all other aspects of life, time spent building relationships is key to developing understanding, empathy and trust with others, that will enable meaningful and empowering outcomes for all. There is no difference in this scenario - beware of parachuting, presumptions or quick fixes.

Para garantir a representação e inclusão LGBTQ+ em um programa esportivo, é essencial adotar uma abordagem proativa e inclusiva em todas as etapas. Aqui estão algumas ações fundamentais: Políticas inclusivas claras: Estabeleça diretrizes que proíbam discriminação com base em identidade de gênero e orientação sexual, e promova a inclusão de atletas e membros LGBTQ+. Ambiente seguro e acolhedor: Treine a equipe para lidar com questões de diversidade e crie um ambiente onde todos se sintam seguros para serem quem são, sem medo de represálias. Diversidade na liderança: Promova a diversidade em posições de liderança e na organização, garantindo que vozes LGBTQ+ sejam ouvidas e representadas nas decisões.

We only have a small group but my experience is that LGBTQ+ athletes don’t need any special treatment to be involved in the endurance cycling and running groups we run. Perhaps due to the extreme nature of the events, everyone is positive and supportive of others personal choices.