YORK CURLING CLUB

Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) Policy

 

1. Policy Statement

The York Curling Club is committed to fostering an environment that is equitable, diverse, inclusive, and free from discrimination and harassment. We believe that curling is for everyone—regardless of age, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, race, ethnicity, ability, religion, socioeconomic status, or any other identity. Our club welcomes and celebrates the unique contributions of all its members, volunteers, staff, and guests.

2. Purpose

The purpose of this policy is to:

  • Establish a framework for advancing equity, diversity, and inclusion across all aspects of club operations.
  • Ensure that all individuals feel welcomed, respected, and valued in our club.
  • Promote accessibility and fairness in membership, programming, recruitment, and leadership opportunities.

3. Scope

This policy applies to all members, employees, volunteers, coaches, board members, and visitors participating in club activities or using club facilities.

4. Definitions

Equity: The principle of considering people's unique experiences and differing situations, and ensuring they have access to the resources and opportunities that are necessary for them to attain just outcomes.

Diversity: The variety of identities found within an organization, group or society, including but not limited to: culture, ethnicity, religion, sex, gender, sexual orientation, age, language, education, ability, family status or socioeconomic status.

Inclusion: The practice of using proactive measures to create an environment where people feel welcomed, respected and valued, and to foster a sense of belonging and engagement.

Discrimination: The unjust or prejudicial treatment of a person or group of people that deprives them of or limits their access to opportunities and advantages that are available to other members of the club.

Harassment: Behaviour that is characterized by the recurrence of unpleasant or unwanted acts or comments that are demeaning, belittling, humiliating, intimidating or threatening to a person, and that cause them distress.

5. Guiding Principles

The York Curling Club commits to:

Creating Safe Spaces: Ensuring our club is free from racism, sexism, homophobia, transphobia, ableism, and all other forms of discrimination.

Accessible Participation: Removing physical, financial, and social barriers to participation wherever possible.

Inclusive Programming: Designing events, leagues, and programs that reflect the diversity of our community.

Representative Leadership: Striving for inclusive representation in decision-making roles and encouraging underrepresented groups to lead.

6. Commitments and Actions

A. Membership and Participation

  • Offer a sliding scale for membership, financial assistance where feasible or deferred payment plans.
  • Implement gender-inclusive registration forms (e.g., non-binary and preferred pronoun options).
  • Provide accessible communication materials (e.g., large print, plain language).

B. Training and Education

  • Provide annual anti-discrimination, EDI, and bystander intervention training for board members, staff, and volunteers.
  • Host workshops or speaker events to increase awareness of diverse experiences in sport.

C. Complaint and Accountability Process

  • Maintain a confidential, fair, and timely complaints process for EDI-related concerns.
  • Designate an EDI Officer or Committee to oversee policy compliance and provide guidance.
  • Review and respond to complaints in accordance with the club’s code of conduct and provincial human rights legislation.

D. Community Outreach and Engagement

  • Partner with local schools, Indigenous communities, 2SLGBTQIA+ organizations, and disability advocacy groups to broaden awareness and participation.
  • Prioritize inclusive language and imagery in all communications and marketing materials.

E. Evaluation and Continuous Improvement

  • Conduct regular reviews of club policies and programs through an EDI lens.
  • Gather anonymous member feedback to assess inclusion and belonging.
  • Report annually to members on progress and next steps.

7. Responsibility 

The EDI Officer, under the oversight of the Board of Directors, is accountable for the direct implementation and governance of this policy. All members and staff are responsible for upholding its principles in daily operations and interactions.

Board Approval

This policy was approved by the Board of Directors of York Curling Club on:

Date: November 27, 2025