Gender Equality Week 2024

SPONSORSHIP

Jennifer Jones took to the stage to share about her curling career and Kruger Canada’s sponsorship of women’s curling in Canada. Jennifer’s remarks on funding and support for women in sport resonated deeply with us.

Her discussion on Kruger’s long-term sponsorship of the Scotties, in contrast to the multiple corporate sponsors for the Brier over the same period of time, highlighted a crucial aspect of equity. The fact that women’s curling attracts higher TV viewership yet receives less sponsorship support is a stark reminder of the ongoing disparities.

While we don’t have all the answers on how to resolve these funding issues, Jennifer’s points emphasized the need for increased and sustained investment in women’s sports.

FAMILY

Family is a topic that was woven into many conversations throughout the day. The fact of the matter is that having a family affects female athletes differently than it affects male athletes. It was explained that tennis has addressed family support through what is essentially a maternity leave, where players maintain their ranking when they return to competing postpartum. During the athlete panel discussion, players from the PWHL talked about maternity leave and nanny support for new families being part of their contract negotiations.

All of this highlights the importance of accommodating family choices and supporting women’s ongoing success in sports, irrespective of their personal decisions.

TEAMWORK

Venus Williams was the keynote speaker for the conference, and she shared candidly about her career highs and lows.

In terms of gender equity, her emphasis on teamwork was enlightening. While tennis is not a “team sport”, Venus talked a lot about how female tennis players came together to negotiate contracts and rewards, which illustrated the power of collective action. This approach of uniting to effect change, rather than competing against one another, is a lesson that could benefit many other sports. It underscores the idea that we are stronger together, working in solidarity to tackle systemic issues.

Venus also emphasized the importance of planning, saying “You can’t just hope. There has to be a plan and action.” Her insight into the necessity of having a concrete plan was a powerful reminder of how essential strategic thinking is. This applies to addressing gender equity, as well as being a great reminder when we are attempting to make changes anywhere in our lives and organizations.

Thanks to Tennis Canada for hosting this conference. It was a great afternoon spent learning from athletes and other conference attendees.