Supporting the integration of the 2SLGBTQI+ community through an innovative sport initiative
government of Canada The support will help the 2SLGBTQI+ community break down barriers to the sport in the Waterloo area.
KITCHEN, ON, March 13, 2023 /CNW/ – The government of Canada is committed to building stronger, healthier communities across the country. Sport plays an important role as it builds self-esteem and leadership skills and allows people to thrive physically, emotionally and socially. Sport is also a powerful tool for integration, but some people in the 2SLGBTQI+ community do not feel comfortable or safe in sport.
Today, Adam van KoeverdenParliamentary Secretary to the Minister for Health and the Minister for Sport, announced $90,000 in funding SPECTRUM, the Waterloo Region’s rainbow community space. He made the announcement on behalf of the Honorable Pascale St-Onge, Minister for Sport and Minister responsible for the Economic Development Agency of Canada for the regions of Quebec. The investment was made by the government of canada Innovation initiative of the sports funding program.
With its 2SLGBTQI+ Sports project in Waterloo Region, SPECTRUM will test a multi-sport and team game model to increase sports participation among those facing sports barriers. It will also explore the successful relationship between local government and SPECTRUM to better understand how this model can break down similar barriers to inclusion among peer groups elsewhere domestically Canada.
quotes
“One of our government’s top priorities is to help Canadians adopt healthier lifestyles. We know that there are still major obstacles to the sport today. In order to remove these obstacles, we must innovate and find sustainable solutions. That’s why we invest in organizations like SPECTRUM, which work to build a stronger and healthier community. Together we will make sport more inclusive, fairer and accessible to all Canada.”
— The Honorable Pascale St-Onge, Minister for Sport and Minister responsible for the Economic Development Agency of Canada for the regions of Quebec
“Our government is proud to support innovative initiatives like this project that create optimal environments for all Canadians to participate in sports. Everyone deserves to participate in sport regardless of their sexual orientation, gender identity or gender expression. Congratulations to SPECTRUM , the Waterloo Region Rainbow Community Space, for leaving no one behind.”
— Adam van KoeverdenParliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Health and the Minister of Sport
“SPECTRUM is grateful for the support of Sport Canada, which has enabled us to explore this unique partnership with the City of Kitchener and to work with researchers at Wilfrid Laurier University to evaluate the project success. Projects like this help us work towards our vision of an inclusive community where all 2SLGBTQI+ individuals are welcomed, celebrated and supported as their authentic selves.”
— Scott WilliamsManaging Director, SPECTRUM
Fast Facts
The Innovation Initiative supports qualifying organizations to test new or adapted high-quality innovative sports approaches that support the goals of Canada’s sports policy. The aim is to develop evidence-based solutions that can be shared nationwide.
The Sport Support Program provides investment for the development of Canada’s sports system. Investments support eligible organizations for programs that align with Canadian sports policy goals.
The government of Canada makes the largest contribution to esports in the state and supports participation and excellence in esports through federal programs and policies.
Related Links
SPECTRUM, the Waterloo Region’s Rainbow Community Space
Sports funding program – innovation initiative
Sports Canada
SOURCE Canadian Heritage
For more information: (media only) please contact: Ariane Joazard-Bélizaire, Press Officer, Office of the Secretary of Sport and Minister in Charge of the Economic Development Agency of Canada for the Quebec Regions, [email protected]; Media Relations, Canadian Heritage, 1-819-994-9101, 1-866-569-6155, [email protected]