Are We One?: The Ontario University Athletics Anti-Racism Report (2021)

IDEAS Research Lab

Executive Summary

Who?

Ontario University Athletics (OUA), the first multi-sport organization of intercollegiate athletics in Canada and the largest conference within USports with over 11,000 student athletes, coaches, and administrators.

What?

A research study led by Dr. Janelle Joseph and the Indigeneity, Diaspora, Equity, and Anti-racism in Sport (IDEAS) Research Lab to discover the OUA racial demographics, experiences and knowledge of racism, and strategies for change.

Findings?

Stop believing racism is only at another school or on another team. Racism is part of every OUA program. Racism can be obvious/overt or subtle/hidden. Hiring and recruitment can be unfair, leaving out excellent racialized student athletes, coaches, and administrators who can bring success to Ontario universities. Not every community member understands what racism is, or how white privilege operates, and many athletes suffer silently. Most institutions lack transparent anti-racism policies and reporting processes.

What is next?

Tools for change outlined in this report center around 4 pillars (see Report for details).

Click below to download the PDF report

OUA Anti-Racism Report 2021

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