USA Fencing recognizes, respects and appreciates all of its LGBTQ+ members. As such, we are committed to fostering a fencing community that is inclusive and people-centered. This guide was developed to provide best practices to ensure our spaces are safe and affirming for members of the LGBTQ+ community. Everyone deserves to show up as their authentic selves in the sport of fencing and we are committed to ensuring that is the case. Remember, give yourself and your peers some GRACE, we’re on this journey of continuous learning, TOGETHER!
The abbreviation stands for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, questioning, intersex, asexual, and the + represents all other genders that are not covered by the other initials.
The use of the acronym is intended to be an all-encompassing way to recognize different gender identities and sexual orientations. The addition of other identities to the LGBT acronym also plays an important role in recognizing and connecting them to a larger community. It also means that these individuals are able to gain greater recognition by society as a whole.
The Humans Rights Campaign Foundation created the acronym CHAMPION for anyone and everyone that wants to recognize and include the LGBTQ+ community respectfully.
Create - safe spaces for all athletes, coaches, and fans at all times — on the field, in the locker rooms, in the stands, at home, and in the community.
Hold - players, coaches, teammates, and fans accountable for non-inclusive language or actions.
Arm - yourself with information and resources about the laws and policies that impact your LGBTQ players, staff, and their families
Model - inclusive behaviors. Weave respect, diversity, and inclusion into your team’s culture on day one.
Promote - allyship and respect on and off the field. Your team culture isn’t just formed at practice
Implement - LGBTQ inclusion policies. Make sure you have an inclusive non-discrimination statement, trans inclusive participation policies, LGBTQ-inclusive travel and uniform policies, and a fan code of conduct.
Organize - inclusion training for players, coaches, and parents. Like in sports, it’s hard to improve without practice and learning
Never assume - someone’s sexual orientation, gender identity, pronouns, or experiences.
According to the National School Climate Report, 86 percent of LGBTQ youth reported being harassed at school, compared to 27 percent of students overall. School years can be challenging for all students, yet those who identify as LGBTQ often face additional pressures or concerns. There is hope to shift the tide; GLSEN found that half of all youth don't understand that discriminatory language is hurtful, nor do they realize the negative consequences their words have specifically on LGBTQ youth. A few things everyone can do to maximize support for LGBTQ teens and college students include:
In addition to numerous LGBTQ organizations focused on particular age groups, many general programs and initiatives exist, which seek to bolster community, encourage positive dialog, and ultimately security greater equality. Some of the best nationally recognized initiatives are CenterLink, GLAAD, Gay and Lesbian International Sport Association, Get Equal, Human Rights Campaign, and many others.
Coming Out: Living Authentically as Transgender or Non-Binary
Coming Out: Living Authentically as Lesbian, Gay and Bisexual+