"Together We Rise"
10/29/2020
As part of the NCAA's Diversity and Inclusion Campaign, each day from Oct. 27-29, 2020 will explore a different theme.
Day 3: “Together We Rise”
Outlining personal action steps to inclusive excellence and celebrating collaboration across the campus community.
Hear from some of Washington's student-athletes as they talk through this topic:
Thompson: "I personally work with the Diversity and Inclusion group centered around gymnastics for the NCAA. My goal is to make sure everyone feels comfortable with identifying how they want to. It isn't as common seeing a gymnast of color compared to a White gymnast or even an LGBTQ gymnast."
I want these women to feel comfortable with their identity and who they are without anticipating judgment.Geneva Thompson
Thompson: "When it comes to gender expression, I feel like gymnasts are seen as very feminine and girly. Often when people think of a woman being gay or bisexual, that feminine image gets erased and that's not always the case. It's important to realize that femininity or girliness doesn't always go away just because they identify as gay or bisexual. With that I also think that it is important to remember that even if a gymnast isn't feminine or girly like everyone else, it doesn't take away from that athlete's ability to be an amazing gymnast. In an anonymous poll, almost 30-40% of gymnasts identified as gay or bisexual and only 2 or 3 women in the whole NCAA have come out about it. I want that to change and I want these women to feel comfortable with their identity and who they are without anticipating judgment.”
Ribera: “Personal action steps for me include seeking friendships with people who aren’t a part of my day-to-day experiences. I will also uplift all groups in my community and maintain the value of intersectionality."
Stephens: “I’ve been asked to be a member of Washington Rowing’s Diversity and Inclusion Task Force. I’ll be working with our Faculty Athletics Representative and other distinguished university and community members to improve inclusivity in our sport.”
Mason: "From the moment we (Mason and MaKayla Woods from Women's Soccer) became Co-Presidents of the Black Student-Athlete Alliance (BSAA), it has been non-stop work! We created a resource guide that highlights Black-owned businesses around the Seattle area for our athletes and faculty to have places that either remind them of home or for our allies to go and support! We have been included in important decisions that impact us not just as student-athletes, but as members of society. There is so much more we're working on for the betterment of the student-athlete experience at the University of Washington that we can't wait to share!"
Hussen: “Me and some teammates will continue to try to make it to other teams’ games and study groups. My living space is pretty diverse when it comes to sport representation as I have moved into a house where 3 different teams are represented. This will allow all of us to keep meeting and getting to know new people.”
Kelby: "One way we can support one another through both intentional action and allyship is simply by learning. There is always something new to learn and do when it comes to diversity and inclusion. For example, if I see a post about an inclusive group that wants to get their voice out or is planning a gathering, I will do my best to spread the word. If I'm unsure about the steps to take to make sure everyone feels included, the first thing I can at least do is learn and spread awareness. It's the first step I can take in supporting the need for a more inclusive environment. I would like to use my voice whether it's on social media or in person."
If I'm unsure about the steps to take to make sure everyone feels included, the first thing I can at least do is learn and spread awareness.Makayla Kelby