Sport · Rights · Wellbeing

Advancing human rights in Canada’s sport and physical activity ecosystem.

What We Do

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Convening for change

We are a convening platform dedicated to identifying and addressing systemic challenges that hinder the realization of human rights within Canada’s sport and physical activity ecosystem. We bring together diverse stakeholders to co-create sustainable solutions.

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Catalyzing cultural transformation

We are deeply committed to building capacity and enhancing cultural competency through a human rights-based approach. By actively collaborating, we facilitate and spearhead the adoption of innovative approaches and tools, aiming to nurture and revitalize Canada’s sport culture and ensure a zero-harm transition.

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Leading through research and advocacy

We function as a policy hub, driving evidence-based advocacy to foster an enabling environment with coherent policies, effective leadership, and strategic direction in Canada’s sport and physical activity ecosystem. We support knowledge mobilization to champion dignity and promote community health and wellbeing.

Our Approach

A Rights-based Approach

A Rights-based Approachright to participate in sport and physical activity. We advocate for equitable access, ensuring that all policies respect, protect, and fulfill the inherent rights of all participants, fostering a culture of dignity, respect, and empowerment.

Systems Thinking

We adopt a holistic view, recognizing the interconnectedness of all elements and actors within the sport and physical activity ecosystem. Our approach considers the complex web of relationships, structures, and processes that influence the sporting landscape. We seek sustainable systemic transitions through rigorous analysis, strategic intervention, and adaptive learning.

Networks of Collaboration

We believe in the power of collective action and the strength of networks to drive innovation and change. Our work involves building and nurturing a broad coalition of stakeholders, including athletes, coaches, organizations, sponsors, and communities, to collaborate, share knowledge, and implement transformative solutions across the sport and physical activity system.

Human Rights

A framework for equity, access, safety and wellbeing

  • The right to play

    Human rights provide a universal framework and roadmap that can guarantee every individual, irrespective of age, gender, ability, or background, has equitable access to sport and physical activity. This framework is crucial for dismantling systemic barriers that prevent fair participation and enjoyment of sport.

  • The right to safe sporting environments

    A human rights approach can ensure that the sport ecosystem prioritizes the safety and well-being of all participants. It compels all parties to create and maintain environments that are not only physically safe but also psychologically supportive, promoting health and well-being.

  • Sport as a powerful enabler of the fulfilment of other human rights

    Sport is a powerful tool for social and economic development. Rooting its governance in human rights amplifies sport's capacity to empower communities, providing pathways to education, enhancing health outcomes, and fostering prosperity.

Why It Matters

  • Healthier Communities

  • Safe Sport

  • Inclusion, Equity, & Belonging

  • Cultural Transition

  • Institutional Reform

  • Sustainable Funding

  • Economic Growth

  • Civic Engagement

  • Environmental Stewardship

  • Empowered Youth

  • Responsible (Democratic) Governance

  • Human Rights Leadership