Pride in Basketball

PRIDE IN BASKETBALL

At Basketball NSW, we are dedicated to creating a safe and inclusive environment that welcomes people of all sexualities and genders, this applies to participants at all levels of our game, for our staff and volunteers.

We firmly stand against any form of bullying, harassment, or prejudice towards individuals based on their sexual orientation or gender identity. Homophobia, biphobia, and transphobia have no place in our sport.

Our mission is to support individuals in leading happy, healthy, and active lives while embracing and honouring the diverse aspects of their identity. We value differences in sex, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, intersex status, ability, skill level, cultural background, ethnicity, location, religious or political beliefs, and life stage.

Basketball NSW supports all athletes and officials to dress in the uniform that suits them while allowing them to successfully play and compete. Athletes who identify as trans, gender diverse, non-binary or another gender identity are free to dress in a manner that affirms their gender identity.

Regardless of who you are or how you identify yourself, you have a valued place within our sport. Basketball NSW proudly promotes LGBTQIA+ diversity and inclusion because basketball is everyone’s game!

WHY IS LGBTQ INCLUSION IMPORTANT

People with diverse sexualities and genders make up an estimated 15% of the population but research shows they have some of the lowest rates of participation in sport, recreation and physical activity out of any community in society.

Inclusion is important in sports for several compelling reasons:

1. Promotes Diversity: Inclusion ensures that people from diverse backgrounds, abilities, genders, ethnicities, and socioeconomic statuses have the opportunity to participate in sports. This diversity enriches the sports community and fosters a more inclusive and accepting society.

2. Equality: Inclusive sports promote equality by providing everyone with equal opportunities to participate and compete, regardless of their differences. This helps break down barriers and reduce discrimination.

3. Physical and Mental Health: Participation in sports can have numerous physical and mental health benefits. Inclusion allows more people to enjoy these benefits, improving overall well-being and quality of life.

4. Social Integration: Inclusive sports create opportunities for people to interact with others from diverse backgrounds. This can help break down stereotypes, reduce prejudice, and promote social integration.

5. Empowerment: Inclusion in sports empowers individuals, by providing a platform to showcase their skills and abilities. This empowerment can lead to greater self-esteem and self-confidence.

6. Skill Development: Inclusive sports help develop important life skills such as teamwork, communication, leadership, and problem-solving. These skills are valuable both on and off the court.

7. Inspiration: Inclusive sports can serve as a source of inspiration for people facing challenges.

8. Legislation and Policy: Compliance with these regulations ensures that sports organisations are inclusive and accessible.

9. Unity: Sports have the power to bring people together from around the world. Inclusive sports events, like the Pride Basketball Australia Tournament, promote how sports can be a platform for promoting acceptance and unity.

10. Business and Economic Impact: Inclusive sports can have a positive economic impact by expanding the consumer base for sports-related products and services. They also create opportunities for businesses that cater to diverse populations.

In summary, inclusion in sports is important because it promotes diversity, equality, health, social integration, empowerment, skill development, inspiration, and global unity. It also aligns with legal and ethical principles and can have positive economic implications.

Overall, fostering inclusivity in sports contributes to a more equitable and harmonious society.

SUPPORT IS AVAILABLE

If you are experiencing prejudice-related violence or harassment here are some options for counselling and support:

• ACON provides counselling as well as social work support to help people resolve complex or ongoing violence and harassment matters. Call 9206 2000 to make an appointment.
• QLife provides anonymous and free LGBTI peer support and referral for people wanting to talk about sexuality, identity, gender, bodies, feelings or relationships. For more information click here.
• ICLC can provide legal support such as assistance with preparing an Apprehended Personal Violence Order. For more information click here.
• Lifeline provides 24-hour crisis support and suicide prevention services to all Australians experiencing a personal crisis. For more information click here.

Basketball should be a safe and fair place for participants.

Here at Basketball NSW, we offer a safe space for people to share their experiences or to raise concerns about behaviour they’ve witnessed or experienced.

If you have information about alleged discrimination or breaches of Basketball Australia’s Member Protection Policy,  you can either ;

• Fill out our online integrity or complaint form, or
• Call Basketball NSW during business hours on 8765 855 and ask for David Watts or Geoff Tripp for a private, safe and confidential conversation, or
• Send a confidential email to david.watts@bnsw.com.au

If you have any questions about the inclusivity of Basketball NSW or the sport in general, our CEO, Maria Nordstrom, and our General Manager of Community Growth & Marketing, Geoff Tripp, are available for a confidential discussion.