Lethbridge Sport Council Celebrates Pride Month

As we celebrate Pride Month, it is essential to recognize the trailblazers in the sport world who have courageously embraced their identities and made significant contributions to both their sports and the LGBTQ+ community. These leaders have not only excelled in their respective fields but have also used their platforms to advocate for equality and inclusion. While the following are just a few examples of LGBTQ+ leaders in Canadian sport, it is important to acknowledge many more individuals have also made remarkable impacts.

Kaitlyn Weaver is a distinguished figure in ice dancing and an influential advocate for LGBTQ+ rights. Competing with Andrew Poje, she represented Canada on the international stage, achieving numerous accolades, including a gold medal at the 2015 Skate Canada International in Lethbridge. Weaver came out as queer in June 2021, emphasizing the importance of visibility and inclusivity in sports. Now focusing on coaching and advocacy, she continues to champion LGBTQ+ rights, inspiring many within the LGBTQ+ community.

Mathieu Constantin is a notable figure in the world of water polo, both as a former athlete and a coach. Born in Montreal, Quebec, Mathieu made significant contributions to the Canadian national water polo team during his athletic career. Now residing in Calgary, Alberta, he has become a role model for athletes by advocating for LGBTQ+ inclusion in sports, sharing his experiences, and promoting diversity and acceptance within the sport community.

Quinn, (they/them) is a celebrated member of the Canadian National Women's Soccer Team. They made history as the first openly transgender and non-binary athlete to win an Olympic medal, securing gold with Canada at the Tokyo 2020 Games. Quinn's journey in soccer began much earlier, debuting for the national team in 2014. They publicly came out in a heartfelt Instagram post in 2020, expressing their desire to be visible for queer individuals who may feel unseen. Quinn is also actively involved in advocacy, spearheading the "See Them, Be Them" initiative to mentor gender-diverse and girl soccer players in Canada.

Luke Prokop, a defenseman from Edmonton, Alberta, made history in 2021 by becoming the first openly gay player under contract with the NHL. Selected by the Nashville Predators in the third round of the 2020 NHL Draft, Prokop's journey to coming out publicly was marked by personal struggle and the desire to live authentically. His announcement has sparked important conversations about inclusivity and acceptance within professional hockey and beyond. Prokop has also shared that living authentically has positively impacted his mental health and performance, and he hopes his openness will inspire other LGBTQ+ individuals in the hockey community to feel accepted and supported.

These leaders exemplify the vital role LGBTQ+ individuals play in sport. Their visibility and advocacy provide younger individuals with role models to look up to, showing them that success and authenticity are not mutually exclusive. Moreover, these leaders help pave the way for more inclusive and accepting environments in sport, ensuring that everyone, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity, can participate and thrive.

At the Lethbridge Sport Council, we are committed to creating inclusive spaces and programs that welcome everyone in our community. Our Free Drop-In Sport program offers opportunities for individuals of all ages and backgrounds to engage in various sports without any financial barriers. These sessions foster a sense of community and belonging, encouraging participation and physical activity.

Our Give it a Try events are designed to introduce new sports and activities to the community, providing a safe and supportive environment for everyone to explore and enjoy. These events are open to all, promoting diversity and inclusivity in sport.

Roving Gyms bring sport and physical literacy directly to different neighborhoods, making it easier for families and individuals to engage in physical activity. This initiative ensures that everyone has access to the benefits of sport, regardless of their location or circumstances.

We are also proud to support Safe Sport initiatives, which aim to create a safe, supportive, and respectful environment for all participants. These initiatives are crucial in preventing discrimination, harassment, and abuse, ensuring that sport remains a positive experience for everyone.

The Southern Alberta Summer Games provide a platform for athletes of all levels to compete, celebrate their skills, and connect with others. This event embodies the spirit of inclusivity and community, highlighting the importance of participation and sportsmanship.

Our Sport Directory is a comprehensive resource for finding local sports clubs, organizations, and programs. This directory makes it easier for individuals to find inclusive and welcoming sports opportunities in Lethbridge.

As we celebrate Pride Month, we invite everyone to join us on Saturday, June 22nd, 2024, at the 16th Annual Pride In The Park event in Lethbridge. Our staff will have a booth set up in the family zone located on the East side of Galt Gardens, to provide more information and support on how to access the inclusive spaces and programs we offer. This event is a wonderful opportunity to celebrate diversity, foster community spirit, and learn more about how we can all contribute to making sport more inclusive for everyone. Pride in the Park will run until 5 pm.

At the Lethbridge Sport Council, we believe that sport has the power to bring people together, break down barriers, and promote a sense of belonging. This Pride Month, let's celebrate the progress we've made, honor those who have paved the way, and continue to strive for a future where everyone can enjoy the benefits of sport without fear or discrimination.