News

Athletics unites against racism

18 months on from the tragic murder of George Floyd in the USA and following recent high profile coverage of racism experienced within elite sport, we along with the other Home Country Athletics Federations and UK Athletics reaffirm our commitment to zero tolerance of racism and all forms of discrimination.

Whilst the Athletics and Running Community in the UK is a widely diverse population, we cannot be complacent – in fact we need to continue to be extra vigilant against the threat that racial discrimination poses to our sport.

In the weeks and months following 25 May 2020, UKA launched its Let’s Talk about Race Programme which led 17 separate focus group sessions taking place throughout the summer, covering many aspects of athletics and race related issues. The establishment of the RACEquality Network was a key outcome from these discussions.

The RACEquality Network monitors the outcomes agreed within the Let’s Talk about Race programme and these are captured within the UKA Diversity Action Plan 2021-2024 and the Diversity Action Plans of each HCAF including England Athletics. The network also supports race, religion, and belief advocates with their initiatives as well as the Race at Work Charter commitment.

It is now our combined aim to grow the breadth and membership of the RACEquality Network to ensure their essential work in this area is continued and that we remain one step ahead of those who would seek to discriminate. Therefore, any individuals wishing to work with, or speak to a member of the RACEquality network, please contact EqualityDiversityInc@uka.org.uk.