The Yorkshire and Humber Anti-Racism in Sport Group are proud to have collaborated with Buddle to produce a new Active Bystander video
Colleagues from Buddle attended the Time for Action on Racism in Sport event at Headingley back in November. The event hosted a number of inspiring speakers including black referee, Wayne Niles. The team wanted to highlight the effects of racism and wider discrimination within sport and physical activity. As well as to encourage people to become allies and active bystanders.
Those who participated in the video generously shared their own experiences of discrimination. They also gave guidance for clubs and organisations on how to make their environments safer and more welcoming for all.
This included a recommendation to ensure policies make it clear that abuse and discrimination will not be tolerated. Staff, volunteers and participants to undertake active bystander training. The Sport Welfare Officer team across Yorkshire and Humber are able to support with both of those things. Their free support offer includes helping clubs to review policies and procedures. They also deliver free 90-minute in person active bystander training sessions.
Laura Harris, Sport Welfare Officer at North Yorkshire Sport said: “I was excited to be part of this video to put my voice to being an active ally in anti-racism. We worked as as a peer group of 20 passionate advocates for anti racism, bringing lived experience, allyship and passion so it is fantastic to have such a resource come from it. This video hopefully can get that message out far and wide – you don’t have to accept racism or discrimination of any kind and we’re here to help!”
Damien Smith, Director of Operations at North Yorkshire Sport said: ‘We are proud to stand with other partners in Yorkshire and The Humber to proactively tackle the racial inequalities that discourage and prevent people from taking part in community sport and physical activity. The Yorkshire and Humber Anti Racism Groups collective work on being an active bystander is about choosing to do or say something when people witness harassment or discrimination. We hope the powerful video helps people reach out for support and the training available through the Sport Welfare Managers’
To find out how the Sport Welfare Officers can work with your organisation, or to book an active bystander training session, please contact l.harris@northyorkshiresport.co.uk
