The Magic of Horses for All: British Equestrian's Inclusive Leap
The British Equestrian Federation (BEF) has launched a bold diversity and inclusion action plan set to revolutionize equestrian sports. By addressing historical barriers and fostering inclusivity, this strategy aims to make equestrianism accessible for everyone. The move echoes the old saying, "Hold your horses!" but this time, we're all invited for the ride.
The Need for Diverse Saddlebacks
The "horses for all" research revealed a pressing issue: equestrian sports have long faced criticism for lack of diversity. BEF's plan addresses these barriers, ensuring anyone, regardless of background, can hop into the saddle. As Mandana Mehran Pour, BEF's head of participation and development, eloquently noted, "This new plan is crucial for making equestrianism a welcoming sport for everyone."
Key Action Areas
Understanding the magnitude of this endeavor, the plan unfolds through six primary focus areas:
Leadership and Governance
It demands a diverse representation in leadership roles to mirror the broader society. Future equestrian leaders should feel as inclusive as a cowboy boot on a summer day.
Data and Diversity Indicators
Analyzing data helps uncover gaps in representation, equipping BEF with the insights to address these gaps effectively.
Workforce
Creating a workforce that reflects a diverse participant base is essential. A robust variety of trainers, administrators, and horse handlers will better serve diverse communities.
Participation and Collaboration
The plan aims to dismantle participation barriers through community collaborations. It's like teaming up with your neighbor who always has perfect timing during jumps.
Education
Equitable access to education and training breaks down myths and opens barn doors wide to everyone interested in equestrian studies.
Communication and Engagement
Improved engagement ensures that no one feels like an outsider at the stable. It's all about equestrian camaraderie beyond borders.
Educational Initiatives: Breaking Barriers One Campus at a Time
Through collaboration with Hartpury University, Landex, and the British Ethnic Riders Federation (BERF), a guidebook has been introduced to promote inclusivity in land-based education. Known as BLOC (BERF Landex Outreach Collaboration), this guide is more than a book—it's a beacon of change.
Linda Greening from Hartpury University highlights the importance of dismantling myths. Historically perceived as pathways for a select few, fields like agriculture and equine sciences are now seeing initiatives designed to inspire more diverse applications.
Community Engagement and Outreach: Inviting Diversity to Gallop
The BLOC guide’s outreach activities include subject taster days, campus tours, and career pathway workshops, all aimed at drawing in a broader array of applicants. The British Ethnic Riders Federation plays a pivotal role in encouraging community groups to dive into the equestrian world, even if their majestic mane skills are yet to be polished.
A Collective Gallop Forward
The BEF acknowledges that transforming equestrian sports into an inclusive field is a collaborative effort. By calling on its member bodies and wider community, BEF is championing a future where the equestrian circle “walks the walk” of diversity and inclusivity.
The goal is a vibrant, representative equestrian community. This initiative ensures equestrian sports not only survive but thrive in an evolving world.
For further insight, the British Equestrian Federation and related efforts are detailed on the Horse & Hound website.
