HRC Slams New NCAA Constitution for Lacking Nondiscrimination Policy
new constitution, approved at the organization’s convention in Indianapolis, is a much shorter version than the previous one — 18 and a half pages, down from 43 — and represents the first major revision since 1997.The constitution makes general statements about diversity, equity, and inclusion.
One section reads, “The Association is committed to diversity, equity and inclusion. The Association, divisions, conferences and member institutions shall create diverse and inclusive environments and shall provide education and training with respect to the creation of such environments and an atmosphere of respect for and sensitivity to the dignity of every person.
The Association, divisions, conferences and member institutions shall commit to promoting diversity and inclusion in athletics activities and events, hiring practices, professional and coaching relationships, leadership and advancement opportunities.”A group of 18 organizations, led by the Human Rights Campaign and Athlete Ally, had called on the NCAA to include specific antidiscrimination language in the constitution to protect LGBTQ+ athletes, women, and athletes of color.
The organizations noted that this is a time when transgender athletes are particularly under attack, with numerous states proposing or enacting laws to restrict their participation in school sports.HRC Interim President Joni Madison released a statement Friday denouncing the lack of a clear nondiscrimination policy in the ratified document. “If not through their constitution, the NCAA needs to show us their playbook for protecting LGBTQ+ and specifically transgender athletes from discrimination,” she said.
