Program for Social Impact and Human Rights in Sport Symposium finalized

As part of a larger connection grant project funded by the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council (SSHRC) and focused on Canada’s Contribution to Social Impact and Human Rights in Sport in four areas (gender equity in sport, Parasport, Indigenous/Aboriginal sport and doping-free sport) the Sport and Social Impact Research Group at Western will be hosting an all-day symposium to showcase keynote speakers and expert panelists to present and provide in-depth discussion on milestones, events and people that have shaped human rights in Canada with respect to the four areas.

There will be an opportunity for discussion, reflection and debate among the panelists, speakers, and guests. We hope to provide a stimulating venue for reflecting on the history and future of clean sport, Indigenous / Aboriginal sport, Parasport and gender equity in sport.

The symposium will be held on October 11th, from 9:00 am to 4:30 pm EST at the Faculty of Health Sciences, in Room 240 of the Arthur & Sonya Labatt Building.

Distinguished panelists include Prof. Guylaine Demers (Université Laval, Chair of the Minister’s Working Group on Gender Equity in Sport), Allison Sandmeyer-Graves (CEO, CAAWS), Josh Vander Vies (Canadian Paralympian), Karen O’Neill (CEO, Canadian Paralympic Committee), Dallas Soonias (2015 Pan Am Bronze Medallist with the Canadian Senior Men's Volleyball Team), Lyle Makosky (former Assistant Deputy Minister for Fitness & Amateur Sport), and Rob Koehler (former World Anti-Doping Agency Deputy Director General).

UPDATE, October 2: Additional panelists that will particpate in the gathering are: Prof. Bruce Kidd (Olympian and long-time advocate of equality and diversity in sport), Prof. David Legg (Parasport scholar, Mount Royal University), Joy Spear Chief-Morris (Western Mustang Alumnus and 2017 Tom Longboat Award winner), Becky Scott (Olympian and IOC and WADA member), and Marie-Eve Beauchemin-Nadeau (Olympian in weightlifting).

There is a small registration fee of $20 CAD (cash or cheque only). Lunch and refreshment breaks will be provided. Contact Camille Croteau to register and for further information.