DIVERSITY, EQUITY, AND INCLUSION
PAC Solidarity Statement
In this time of reunification and rebuilding our club, PAC would like to welcome all of our members. Whether you are newcomers or oldtimers, have been swimming through the pandemic or took a break, live in one of Portland's four quadrants or one of its many suburbs, we are thrilled to have you as part of our community.
As we move forward from these trying times of uncertainty, our community of parents, coaches, and swimmers are unwavering in being at the forefront of bridging the racial and income disparities in this sport. As we strive to build and sustain an inclusive environment that embraces and values diversity, we pledge to foster fairness, equity, inclusion, and belonging of every race, color, national origin, ethnicity, gender identity, sexual orientation, religion, age, disability, and family income level.
Our DEI Committee
Our Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Committee is led by swimmers and coaches, to increase awareness and encourage diversity, equity, and inclusion throughout our swim club. In conjunction with USA Swimming, the committee is initially focused on DEI education for PAC athletes, coaches, and parents to create a safe and inclusive community. Below is a link to our DEI Guidelines which help define the club's DEI philosophy. A link to age-appropriate DEI resources will be posted shortly.
Portland Aquatic Club's DEI Guidelines, October 2020
Please email us at [email protected] with any questions, comments, or concerns. We always welcome new members to this committee and are eager for all voices that are excited about DEI to join. We are committed to identify and lead in reducing barriers, to create opportunities for inclusion, and to increase fairness in the sport and in our club. We want to hear from you.
Resources
- Our governing body of USA Swimming has committed to improving our organization by cultivating and fostering diversity, equity, and inclusion. The USA Swimming DEI page includes the organization goals along with various articles, resources, and videos. We all can have a place in this sport and DEI makes us all better – this message comes from the top! ;)
- USA Swimming offers Diversity Camps for athletes from diverse backgrounds. The USA Swimming site has links and explanations to these camps and the PAC DEI group would be happy to help any athlete interested in applying for these incredible experiences.
- The Oregon Swimming DEI page provides a simple explanation of Oregon Swimming’s goals for diversity, equity, and inclusion. The Oregon swimming DEI chair and USA Swimming DEI committee are also available to contact if there are any concerns: [email protected].
