For years and years, running has been an equalizer in the sense that you lace up, go outside, and run. But beneath the idea of this reality is a complicated truth. There’s a need to continue ensuring diversity in sports, especially in running. It’s a conversation that should never stop happening, so we ensure full representation regarding gender, size, ability, race, and sexual orientation in sports and running communities.
Unfortunately, in some running communities, identity-based barriers exist. You may wonder, how so? For one, it’s important to ensure representation in leadership positions in running clubs from diverse genders, abilities, races, and sexual orientations, because running is all about community. As runners know, running isn’t a purely single-sport. It’s a vibrant community of people who take up running through life. So, it’s vital to have all voices and people represented.
The Discourse: Why Diversity in Sports Is Non-Negotiable Now
Inclusion in sports has shifted from “we should be welcoming” to “how do we create a community where everyone can be themselves and safe”? Reckoning with inclusion and diversity forces running communities to face a few realities.
1. Running hasn’t been equally accessible to everyone.
As run clubs and groups reckon with diversity in sports, many have discovered that barriers have existed for BIPOC runners, LGBTQIA+ runners, differently-abled athletes, and plus-size runners continue to report barriers. There’s been a realization that in some run communities, there’s a lack of diverse leadership, invisibility in marketing, and limited outreach.
2. Representation has material consequences.
As run clubs have looked at diversity in their groups, they’ve had to realize that some members have never felt seen or heard. In turn, when people don’t feel they’re represented, it’s harder for them to imagine themselves as any part of a community. The best club reckons with inclusion, realizing that diversity isn’t performative. It’s a structural requirement.
3. Run communities now expect action, not statements.
We live in a very savvy time with social media and immediate news and knowledge. As a result, people can spot disingenuous words that are performative but lack substance. Therefore, when running sports clubs and communities that embrace diversity in sports, they know it’s essential to be transparent and to make consistent investments in these efforts.
How Brands Are Showing Up (and Where They Must Go Next)
The running industry has always prided itself on passion and community. But here’s the truth: brands have to keep doing the work. That means sports brands, run clubs, road races, and the entire industry have to continue to evolve. Here’s how to be forward-looking.
1. Working with organizations built by the communities they aim to serve.
One approach to take the guesswork out of what being inclusive means is to become familiar with the Running Industry Diversity Coalition (RIDC). The organization focuses on “moving the culture of running forward by making it more accessible, inclusive, and reflective of every community that brings it to life.”
2. Rethinking run product design and representation.
Companies that manufacture running gear have to be pushed to support diversity in sports. That means ensuring size inclusivity, adaptive gear, racially diverse fit models, and marketing representation, among other things. The fact is that doing this isn’t about checking the box. There can be no diversity or representation if people can’t even get the right equipment for themselves.
3. Supporting new voices in sports media.
Another excellent resource to explore is The Magic Boost. The organization’s vision is a landscape of track and field that fosters innovation and diversity. The thrust is to train and amplify emerging storytellers in the running community. The fact is that who gets to tell the story of anything matters. Storytellers must represent all people.
4. Partnering with LGBTQIA+ run trail and outdoor groups.
Trail running and outdoor sports have historically been less representative of diverse voices and communities. One organization that aims to support LGBTQIA+ athletes and creative partnerships is LGBTQ Outdoors. Reaching out to organizations such as LGBTQ Outdoors and creating opportunities for trail and road races is an excellent approach to expand reach.
Tips for How Race Directors and Run Clubs Can Lead
Diversity in sports and inclusivity are big topics of discussion in the running community. The following are tips on where to start to ensure diversity as a race director or run club leader in your community.
- Audit your imagery, marketing, and leadership. Ask who’s visible, who’s not, and why.
- Partner with groups working on diversity and inclusion. RIDC, LGBTQ Outdoors, and The Magic Boost offer programs, partnerships, and community connections. So, connect.
- Listen to your communities. Listen first and pay attention. Your community will tell you what it needs. It’s then your job to act.
Diversity in sports isn’t a trend. It’s a redefining transformation for the better. It’s a recognition that running belongs to everyone and not just the few. Sports are a powerful tool for empowerment, and every runner can see themselves as part of an empowered community.
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