From the Communications Director – MARCH/APRIL 2021

Greetings!

CONGRESS UPDATE
It is four months to our hybrid 19th Quadrennial IAPESGW International Congress, September 8-10, 2021 – at Tianjin University of Sport, China.

The good news is that we have extended the closing date for abstracts to May 15, 2021. Please take advantage of this new deadline and submit your abstract now.

To attend the IAPESGW World Congress you must register for the Congress as a member of IAPESGW.  

CLICK HERE to complete the MEMBERSHIP APPLICATION and PAY MEMBERSHIP DUES. Once your membership dues are paid, your membership is good for four years: 2021-2025. If you are already a member of IAPESGW there is no cost to participate in the Congress. 

COVID
We are starting to see more countries and communities reducing lockdowns in response to  Covid.  Hopefully, this is a positive sign of a diminishing pandemic.

BOOK REVIEW
I just finished reading Megan Rapinoe’s book “One Life” (Random House ISBN: 978-0-593-29558-8) A compelling read!  

I first saw her on television speaking to the media after the US Women’s Football team lead a victory parade in New York, having one another Olympic gold medal – this time, Rio 2016.  She was well spoken and challenged the USA Soccer Federation to secure equal pay for the women’s team to match that of male players.

In the book she reflects upon coming out as gay, and how she used her sport platform to advocate for marriage equality.  Also, in 2016, she took a knee during the US national anthem to show solidarity for racial injustice (she is white) and police brutality.  She was a leader in lawsuit with the US Soccer Federation over gender discrimination, and she refused to visit the White House when Trump was President.

Her story demonstrates how one woman can make a huge difference and bring about change.  That standing up for equality is standing up for yourself and helping others.  We are seeing more of this around the world as sexual harassment and gender politics are being featured in the media. 

CALL TO ACTION
Continue to stand up for gender equality and human rights. Use your power, position or platform to make the world a better place.

ABOUT THIS ISSUE
In this Update, I have put together many articles and stories under the usual alphabetical headings with large sections on Covid, Physical Activity and Women in Sport. To brighten things up I’ve included many photos from the Womensport Australia photographic competition 2020.

Stay safe, active, healthy and happy reading!

Janice Crosswhite OAM
Communications Director IAPESGW