Inclusion, Diversity, Equity and Accessibility
Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, and Accessibility (IDEA) is at the core of Special Olympics Canada.
Special Olympics Canada and its Chapters recognize and value individual differences in identity, perspective, and lived experience. We encourage and support participation in our organization of all segments of Canadian society and are committed to creating and sustaining a safe, accessible, diverse, and inclusive environment. In doing so, Special Olympic Canada and its Chapters will promote and reflect Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, and Accessibility (IDEA) in our governance, programs, and operations.
2SLGBTQI+ Inclusion in Sport
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Key TermsHuman Rights legislation across Canada protects us from discrimination based on sex, sexual orientation, gender identity and gender expression. Read on to learn what each of these terms mean and how they are unique and independent -
How to be an AllyWe’re proud to have athletes, volunteers, coaches, staff and Board members of many gender identities, gender expressions and sexual orientations. Here are some ways that you can help to make everyone feel welcome, safe and included at Special Olympics -
Pronoun Sharing Best PracticesWe recommend that pronoun sharing be encouraged but not mandatory. Not every person is an ally, and we don’t want false signals of inclusion being made. As well, not every person feels safe to share the pronoun that they truly identify with
Accessible & Inclusive Language
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Accessible LanguageIt’s time to get your message out so that all can understand it! Follow these guidelines so that your message can reach everyone. “Accessible Language” is language everyone can understand! -
Inclusive LanguageWhether your message is printed, on social media, blogging or spoken, follow these guidelines to make sure your words resonate and connect with your intended audience. Inclusive language speaks to everyone! -
The Cultural Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Image FilterThe cultural Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, and Accessibility image filter is a tool to help you choose images that reflect the diversity within Special Olympics and show commitment to equitably include and welcome everyone interested in the movement.
Diversifying Approaches
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How to Diversify your Board of DirectorsWhen possible, it is recommended that three or more people with a particular identity (e.g. gender diverse, Indigenous, racialized, women) join the Board to help create a Board environment that is welcoming and inclusive where all members feel they can speak comfortably and be understood. -
Sports for GrowthAre you interested in attracting new athletes and volunteers from diverse cultural and/or First Nations, Métis or Inuit Backgrounds? Then here are some sports that may help you do that based on the most popular sports from Canada’s top 3 source countries for immigration, as well as sports that are played at the North American Indigenous Games -
Diversifying Athletes & VolunteersIt’s time to reach out to a variety of cultural groups in your community and highlight their opportunities in the Special Olympics movement