Let’s start with some definitions!
Diversity: means that the club includes or involves people from a range of different social and ethnic backgrounds and of different genders, sexual orientations, etc.
Inclusion: is the practice of including or involving people
Belonging: means feeling welcome, safe to be your full self
Equity: focusses on what is needed and on allocating resources accordingly
Equality: means that people are given the same resources and opportunities – not the same as equity – see below
What is an inclusive club?
An inclusive club welcomes and seeks out diverse perspectives and creates a culture where people feel psychologically and physically safe, valued, connected and able to thrive.
Why is it important to be an inclusive club?
Apart from the fact that all UQ Sport clubs are bound by the UQ Diversity, Equity and Inclusive Behaviours Policy, which states that “The University of Queensland is committed to creating a thriving, diverse community where all staff, students and members of the UQ Community feel welcome, included and safe”, inclusive clubs simply perform better.
Compared to non-inclusive clubs, they tend to have stronger member and volunteer bases with a wide range of skills and abilities, are more likely to secure sponsorship and have stronger community support.
Inclusive clubs show that their values statements are not just words but underpin everything they do.
Resources to help your club be more inclusive
UQ Sport reinvests all profits into services, facilities, and programs, and is supported by funding from the Student Services and Amenities Fee (SSAF) to benefit UQ students.
UQ Sport Ltd is a division of UQ Holdings.
