As we celebrate Black History Month 2024, British Ice Skating recognises the significance of this moment in fostering diversity and inclusion within our organisation. This month serves as a reminder of the important contributions Black communities have made to society, including in sports, and provides an opportunity to reflect on how we can continue to grow as an inclusive and multicultural organisation.
The Importance of Black History Month in Ice Skating
Black History Month is a vital platform for highlighting the richness of Black heritage and its impact on the world, including the world of ice skating. It allows us to celebrate the diversity within our sport and ensure that our ice rinks reflect the multicultural society we live in.
At British Ice Skating, we are committed to not only acknowledging but also amplifying the voices and stories of Black skaters, coaches, and professionals who have contributed to our sport's development and growth. By embracing the values of diversity and inclusion, we are working to create an environment where individuals from all backgrounds feel welcome, respected, and able to express their authentic selves on and off the ice. Black History Month provides the perfect backdrop to continue fostering a space where cultural exchange and learning can thrive.
Nurturing Multiculturalism and Anti-Racism
Our mission extends beyond celebrating a single month of the year. We understand that true inclusion must be embedded in the fabric of our organisation. British Ice Skating is dedicated to nurturing multiculturalism by ensuring that all individuals, regardless of race or ethnicity, feel empowered to participate in and contribute to the sport. We are continuously striving to break down any barriers that may prevent people from feeling included.
One of the key pillars of our work is promoting anti-racism. This involves active engagement in dialogue, education, and awareness, alongside the commitment to dismantle systemic barriers. We are driven to create a sport that not only welcomes diversity but actively combats prejudice, discrimination, and racism at all levels, from grassroots programs to professional competitions.
Year-Round Commitment to Equity and Inclusion
While Black History Month is a time to celebrate and reflect, it is also a reminder that the work towards equity and inclusion must be sustained throughout the year. At British Ice Skating, we have set ambitious targets that are deeply rooted in our Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) strategy. This includes regular reviews of our programs, practices, and pathways to ensure they are fair and accessible to all.
Our EDI action plan highlights specific steps we are taking to identify and remove barriers to participation from underrepresented communities. These initiatives are not just about ticking boxes, but about meaningful, long-lasting change that will ensure ice skating becomes a truly inclusive sport. Development projects, mentorship programs, and community outreach efforts are just some of the ways we are actively working to create a more equitable space for all.
Zoia Birmingham – Skater, Coach and DiversifyIce Ambassador for the UK:
Personal Reflections from a Black Female Ice Skating Coach
As a Black female ice skater who has had the privilege of a long professional career and now works as a coach in central London, I have seen first hand the power of representation. Teaching skaters from a wide range of ethnicities has been one of the most rewarding aspects of my career. Ice skating has traditionally been perceived as less accessible to certain communities, but I am proud to see more diversity on the ice now than ever before.
For me, Black History Month is a time to reflect on the journey that we have taken to get here and the importance of continuing to champion diversity. I have witnessed the positive impact that ice skating can have on individuals from different backgrounds, providing them with confidence, discipline, and a sense of belonging. However, I also know that there is still more work to be done.
As a coach, my focus is on creating a supportive and inclusive environment where everyone feels they can succeed, regardless of their background. I want young skaters to see themselves represented, not just in the sport itself but in the coaching staff and leadership as well. My hope is that through these efforts, more children from underrepresented communities will be inspired to take up ice skating and see it as a sport where they can thrive.
Davina Victory – Coach, Skater and EDI Committee member:
As a coach who is Black, I am in the privileged position of being able to work with people from varied and diverse communities, who feel welcomed into the skating family. Through hard work and merit, they can advance through the Skate UK programme and onto Tests and Competitions. Now, they are able to see coaches and fellow competitors who look like them.
Black History Month (BHM) also allows me to reflect on the past aspects of our skating environment, to celebrate being black and skating, but also provides an opportunity to enquire into what happened in the past, when and how it happened and more importantly, identify the lessons that have been learned and carried forward to make skating more inclusive and diverse, at every level.
Progression has been made, but there is a long way to go. Throughout the echelons of BIS, representation of British communities, needs to be seen. I’m able to give back to the community by sharing my knowledge and coaching experiences and embracing all cultures, Cultures, who typically do not fit the stereotypical skater. I’m able to do this because of those who came before me and have given me the courage to stand up and to be seen and heard.
Black History Month is more than a month - it’s every day.
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