Quadball™ is rooted in providing a safe space for people of all backgrounds to come together to compete. US Quadball wanted to take that a step further and ensure there was a group dedicated to creating initiatives in this area.
PILLARS FOR DEI WORK
USQ has identified seven pillars, also adopted by MLQ, for our diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) work. These pillars are based off of main points shared in the key takeaways. These pillars will help guide and define the focus areas for action items moving forward.
Equity: The fair treatment, access, opportunity and advancement for all people, while at the same time striving to identify and eliminate barriers that have prevented the full participation of some groups. The principle of equity acknowledges that there are historically underserved and underrepresented populations and that fairness regarding these unbalanced conditions is needed to assist in the provision of adequate opportunities to all groups.
Inclusion: The act of creating environments in which any individual or group can be and feel welcomed, respected, supported and valued as a fully participating member. An inclusive and welcoming climate embraces differences and offers respect in words and actions for all people.
Leadership: The development of leaders in the Quadball community with a focus on uplifting the experiences of marginalized groups.
Learning Opportunities: The creation of training and educational modules that foster a broader awareness of the experiences of marginalized groups as well as providing tools to put actions in place that create an inclusive environment.
Recruitment/Retention: The process of actively welcoming members from marginalized groups into the sport, while also fixing problems and challenges that block their continued participation.
Spotlight: The creation of social media and PR campaigns that focus attention on the experiences of marginalized groups.
Safety: The creation of an environment in which everyone feels comfortable in expressing themselves and participating fully, without fear of attack, harassment, ridicule, or denial of experience. This includes in person and online spaces, and activites/programs that take place on and off the field.
To learn more about the terminology around DEI initiatives and programs, read this glossary of common terms from the University of Washington. We found their definitions, and the resources linked at the bottom of the glossary, helpful in developing the pillars above.
ADVOCACY
USQ will be spearheading efforts to do advocacy work in areas where USQ Hosted events take place. Advocacy work includes connecting with LGBTQIA+ centers in the area for collaboration, taking steps to ensure members and spectators feel safe at our events, etc. If you have interest in helping with these efforts, please reach out to membership@usquadball.org.
RESOURCES
Photo Credit: TCP Photography