1 Chapter One: Sports Feminism
Section One: The Fundamentals
A) What do we know about sport? What are common assumptions we make about sport and society?
Exercise 2: Sports are Political in Nature
Whilst sports can create an environment that unites individuals of different backgrounds and celebrates our differences- it continues to uphold a political agenda. Through politics, sports have been a light-force for creating meaningful change amongst its community (fans and players alike), however political action from unjust environments and regulations are qualities that have enabled sports to be what it is today. For example, sports were not always just and equitable. Professional sports teams often reflect the values of those in positions of power. Thus, who is represented on the team, who can have access to training, proper gear, playing time, etc. is dependent on that decision maker. Minority individuals have faced discrimination, verbal abuse and obstacles created to make it difficult to succeed. Furthermore, when an individual is apart of two or more minority groups (ex: black, woman, low socio-economic status, etc.), they face further difficulties in receiving equitable, and equal treatment in the sporting industry.
For example, in the 70s women were banned from competing in marathons. Katherine Switzer protested the ban as it was discriminatory against women wishing to compete in sport. Men attempted to physically remove her from the race, however this is what led to progression for women in sports.
Today we still face inequity. Allyson Felix is an Olympic champion and Ex-Nike runner. As a black, female runner who became pregnant- Nike cut her salary by 70% simply because she was pregnant despite her male colleagues who also had children. However even without pregnancy, Black and female athletes continue to face disproportionate salaries compared to male counterparts. It has led to activism and boycotting against larger brands for being discriminatory against minority groups, and continues to serve as an example as to why sports are very much political (for good and for bad).
What surprised me?
Under the prompt “Sports are Universal Language” I saw some perspectives that were different to my initial thoughts. At first, this prompt makes me think “well of course sports speak a universal language”. There are so many indicators as to why. For example, I think everyone can appreciate that the involvement of individuals in sports speaks volumes for their personal passion and love for whichever sport they play. They can respect the careful and strategic gameplay, the cleverness, the respect required amongst teammates, coaches and referees. There is a deep emotional connection tied to it which is why so many people- even viewers follow it so closely. They can also appreciate the physical commitment, integrity, and grit that comes with it as it is needed in every sport. It speaks volume to the character players have and dedication to their sport. The