“Sport has the power to change the world. It has the power to inspire. It has the power to unite people in a way that little else does. Sport can awaken hope where there was previously only despair. Sport speaks to people in a language they can understand.”
– Nelson Mandela
The reasons for the importance of diversity in participation and inclusion can be examined from different perspectives. As a community-driven supplier of ‘participation in sport’, it is essential that we be proactive in supporting the many dimensions of diversity and provide a safe space. For those who wish to pursue the joy of watching and playing sports that provide ways to escape the stress of our daily lives and come together as a community, an essential element of success is to include access and commitment to offer as many alternatives as possible.
At an individual level, inclusion in sports has significant benefits. Participation not only builds self-esteem and a healthy lifestyle; it also creates a sense of connection with others. It builds bridges of understanding differences in culture, language, age, political, sexual identity, economic and religious backgrounds.
For communities and organizations that promote inclusion in sports, healthy living, cultures of respect and teamwork naturally evolve. Collectively, so much more can be achieved.
The National Aquatic Complex goal is to be part of the solution that encourages and supports the many dimensions of diversity and social inclusion in our community.
