On June 21, as we observe National Indigenous Peoples Day, we come together to acknowledge and celebrate the rich history, diverse heritage, unwavering resilience, and vibrant cultures of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis peoples across Canada. This day serves as a poignant reminder of the enduring contributions and profound significance of Indigenous communities in shaping the fabric of our nation.

Originally known as National Aboriginal Day, the commemoration was officially established in 1996 by then Governor General of Canada, Roméo LeBlanc, through the Proclamation Declaring June 21 of Each Year as National Aboriginal Day. Since then, this day has been a time to honor and recognize the unique traditions, languages, and customs of Indigenous peoples, while also highlighting their ongoing struggles and triumphs.

For generations, many Indigenous groups and communities have marked June 21 or around that time of year as a day of celebration, coinciding with the summer solstice, the longest day of the year. This symbolic date holds deep cultural and spiritual significance, representing renewal, growth, and the interconnectedness of all living beings.

As we reflect on National Indigenous Peoples Day, we express our profound gratitude to the Indigenous communities of the Northwest Territories for their enduring stewardship of the land and their gracious hospitality in allowing us to reside, work, play, and thrive on their traditional territories. We recognize and honor the profound contributions of Indigenous peoples, whose traditional knowledge, wisdom, and cultural practices have enriched our lives and communities in immeasurable ways.

On this day of remembrance and celebration, let us reaffirm our commitment to reconciliation, respect, and partnership with Indigenous peoples, as we strive to build a more inclusive, equitable, and harmonious society for all. May National Indigenous Peoples Day serve as a moment of reflection, appreciation, and solidarity with Indigenous communities across Canada.

We are thrilled to share the exciting news that Team NT Arctic Winter Games athletes, Kathleen Cai and Karissa Sadowick, have been chosen to participate in the National Female Training Camp organized by Table Tennis Canada in Quebec City.

The training camp promises days filled with intensive technical training sessions, valuable mentorship opportunities, and engaging activities designed to bring together female athletes from all corners of the country. This event serves as a platform to celebrate the sport of Table Tennis and foster camaraderie among young athletes nationwide.

According to the official announcement on the Table Tennis Canada website (https://ttcanada.ca/national-girls-training-camp-set-to-take-place-in-quebec-city/), the training camp aims to unite youth from diverse backgrounds, showcasing their dedication and talent on a national stage. It is a testament to the hard work and commitment of these young athletes who have earned the opportunity to represent their provinces and territories at this prestigious event.

In a statement regarding the training camp, Table Tennis Canada expressed, “This training camp serves as a celebration of Table Tennis, uniting youth from across the country, spanning from coast to coast to coast. It is a testament to the dedication and talent of young athletes who will gather in Québec City for this important event. A special congratulations is extended to the athletes who have been selected to represent their respective provinces and territories at this training camp. Their hard work and commitment to the sport have earned them this opportunity to come together and connect while showcasing their skills on a national stage.”

We are immensely proud of Kathleen Cai and Karissa Sadowick for their selection to this prestigious training camp and are eagerly anticipating their success and growth as they participate in this wonderful initiative. Their dedication and passion for Table Tennis exemplify the spirit of sportsmanship and excellence that we strive to uphold in Team NT.

We wish Kathleen and Karissa the best of luck at the National Female Training Camp in Quebec City and look forward to witnessing their achievements on the national stage. Stay tuned for more updates on their journey at the training camp!!!

Throughout the month of June, the Table Tennis community in the Northwest Territories is coming together to celebrate the values of equity, diversity, and inclusion within the sport. Beyond mere labels, this movement aims to create a welcoming environment where individuals from all backgrounds can partake in the joy of Table Tennis without fear of judgment or exclusion.

In a region known for its passion for table tennis, the focus is shifting towards fostering a culture of acceptance and unity, where every individual has the opportunity to engage in the sport they love, regardless of their background or identity. The emphasis is on creating a space where differences are embraced, and all players are valued for their unique contributions to the game.

The spirit of inclusivity in table tennis goes beyond representation; it’s about ensuring that everyone, regardless of their race, gender, or background, feels a sense of belonging and empowerment at the table. It’s about breaking down barriers and opening doors for individuals to experience the thrill of the game and the camaraderie that comes with it.

As the Table Tennis community in the Northwest Territories joins hands to champion equity, diversity, and inclusion, the goal is clear: to create a space where every player can find joy, happiness, and a sense of belonging at the table. By embracing the richness of diversity and celebrating the unity that comes from inclusion, table tennis in the NWT is not just a sport—it’s a testament to the power of coming together as one team, united in the love of the game.

Embracing authenticity and leading with courage. Sarah Gallsworthy’s powerful journey towards equity, diversity, and inclusion is a reminder that growth often comes from discomfort. Let’s strive for continuous growth and embrace the transformative power of vulnerability. #Equity #Inclusion #Courage

https://inclusionincorporated.com/the-blog/f/finding-my-place-a-journey-through-pride-equity-and-inclusion?mc_cid=25f1d8863e&mc_eid=979e825159

Coaches representing the Table Tennis and Hockey teams at the Arctic Winter Games in Yellowknife are making a powerful statement by proudly wearing gender pronouns pins on their uniforms. The pins, which display preferred gender pronouns such as “he/him,” “she/her,” or “they/them,” serve as a visible symbol of inclusivity and a commitment to creating a welcoming and supportive environment for all athletes and participants.

“It’s so great to see the pin on our coaches’ uniforms,” we hear back from some of the participants. “They are role modeling inclusivity and opening up the barriers for identifying. It’s a small gesture that carries a big message of acceptance and respect for individuals of all gender identities.”

The gender pronouns pins have become a meaningful and impactful addition to the coaches’ uniforms, sparking conversations and raising awareness about the importance of recognizing and honoring individuals’ gender identities. By wearing these pins, the coaches are sending a clear message of support and solidarity.

The initiative to introduce gender pronouns pins at the Arctic Winter Games reflects a broader commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion in sports. By acknowledging and affirming individuals’ gender identities, the coaches are helping to create a more inclusive and affirming environment where all participants feel valued, respected, and accepted for who they are.

To learn more about the significance of the gender pronouns pins and the impact they are making at the Arctic Winter Games, visit HERE. Join us in celebrating and promoting inclusivity, diversity, and acceptance in sports, one pin at a time.

GenderPronounsPins #Inclusivity #ArcticWinterGames #RoleModeling #DiversityandInclusion #Acceptance #Respect

Table Tennis North and Hockey Northwest Territories (NWT) are making waves in the world of sports by leading the charge for diversity, equity, and inclusion. Their innovative initiatives have caught the attention of Canadian Women & Sport, shining a spotlight on their efforts to create a more inclusive and welcoming environment for all athletes and participants.

In a recent feature in the Canadian Women & Sport newsletter, Table Tennis North and Hockey NWT were highlighted for their commitment to promoting diversity and inclusion in sport. One of the standout initiatives mentioned was the development of Pronoun Pins by Hockey NWT in 2022, a creative way to foster inclusivity and acceptance within the sporting community.

At both the 2023 Arctic Winter Games and Canada Winter Games, coaches from Hockey NWT proudly wore Pronoun Pins, sending a powerful message of inclusivity and respect for all individuals. Inspired by this impactful gesture, Hockey NWT used their $1,000 honorarium from the Same Game Challenge to collaborate with Table Tennis North and establish an Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) Committee in December 2023.

Thorsten Gohl, a member of the EDI Committee, shared, “Coaches at both Hockey NWT and Table Tennis North will wear Pronoun Pins at the upcoming 2024 Arctic Winter Games. We ask them to be role models, showcase the importance of inclusion, and make everyone within the team and others welcome to the sports they represent.”

The 2024 Arctic Winter Games, set to take place in Mat-Su Borough, Alaska from March 10-16, will serve as a platform for these organizations to demonstrate their commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion in sport. Through their actions and initiatives, Table Tennis North and Hockey NWT are setting a powerful example for the sporting community, emphasizing the importance of creating a welcoming and inclusive environment for all participants.

As we look ahead to the 2024 Arctic Winter Games, let us celebrate the efforts of Table Tennis North and Hockey NWT in championing diversity and inclusion in sport. Together, we can create a more inclusive and equitable sporting landscape where everyone feels valued, respected, and empowered to participate and excel.

#TableTennisNorth #HockeyNWT #DiversityandInclusion #ArcticWinterGames

In a proactive move towards fostering inclusivity and creating a safe and welcoming environment for all participants, we are proud to announce our commitment to using inclusive language in all our communications. Recognizing that pronouns are an integral part of someone’s gender expression and identity, we understand the importance of respecting and acknowledging individuals for who they authentically are.

As coaches, mentors, and role models, the language we use and the questions we ask play a significant role in shaping the experiences of those in our programs. We believe that by embracing inclusive language practices, we can enhance the quality of interactions and create a more supportive and inclusive sport environment for all.

In line with our commitment to inclusivity, our coaches at the 2024 Arctic Winter Games will be wearing specially crafted Gender Pronouns pins. These unique pins feature pronouns burned into wood sourced from birch trees native to the Northwest Territories, symbolizing our connection to the region and our dedication to promoting inclusivity in sport. The birch wood used in the pins has been carefully dried for two years, reflecting the time and care invested in creating these meaningful symbols of respect and acceptance.

This initiative is just one of the many steps we are taking towards fostering a culture of inclusion and diversity in sport. By wearing these Gender Pronouns pins, our coaches aim to show their support for gender diversity and create a more inclusive and affirming space for all participants at the Arctic Winter Games.

We invite all participants, supporters, and stakeholders to join us in championing inclusivity and celebrating the diversity that enriches our sporting community. Together, let us continue to strive for a more inclusive and welcoming environment where everyone feels valued, respected, and empowered to be their authentic selves.

Join us in this important journey towards inclusion in sport, and let’s make the 2024 Arctic Winter Games a truly inclusive and affirming experience for all. Together, we can create positive change and build a more inclusive future for sports and beyond.

Our coaches deliver a powerful message through their actions. Wearing ‘Every Child Matters’ and Gender Pronouns pins, we create an inclusive environment where language becomes a tool for acceptance. Let’s honor everyone’s authentic selves and foster a culture of respect and understanding.

Language is a powerful tool for communicating inclusivity in sport. Language is not neutral. It is closely tied to the culture and society in which it is used. Sport is not an equal playing field, it is a sex-segregated world, where not everyone belongs and is welcomed. Sport is however, one of the most powerful platforms for promoting equality and empowering all who participate. One of the ways we can start moving towards equality in sport is with the language we use.

Gender pronouns (he/she/they/ze etc.) specifically refer to the person you are referring to. Pronouns are a part of someone’s gender expression and send the message to others of who they authentically are and how they feel about themselves.

Many non-binary people feel left out of society and often have their pronouns ignored, misused, or discounted.  Non-binary or genderqueer are umbrella terms for gender identities that are neither male or female, boy or girl. 

Below are a few links that can help you practice using other pronouns:

• http://mypronouns.org/she
• http://mypronouns.org/he
• http://mypronouns.org/they
• http://mypronouns.org/ze
• http://mypronouns.org/neopronouns

Safe and Helpful Hints:

• Don’t guess – Ask. It is acceptable to ask someone what pronoun they use.
• Use singular “they/them/theirs” for a person until you have the opportunity to ask about their pronouns.
• You can also use their name until you learn their pronouns.
• If you have trouble remembering someone’s pronoun, it is okay to ask for a reminder.
• If you misuse someone’s pronouns, acknowledge that you have done that and move on.  The best way to show that you care is to try to use the correct pronoun.

Tips for programs and practices:

• Offer a non-binary gender option for membership registration.
• Update registration forms, and online forms, to include the gender pronouns that individuals use.
• Avoid referring to a group or team with “hey guys” or “hey girls”. Use gender neutral language like ‘hey team’ or “hey everyone”.
• Start sharing your pronouns to normalize the behavior of not making assumptions about gender identity. You can start by adding your pronouns to your email signature.

It may take some getting used to. You may feel awkward at times. Correctly using someone’s pronouns allows the person to feel seen and included-and that’s powerful. Ultimately, using gender-neutral pronouns when referring to a group or person, or about a group or person, doesn’t require too much effort on your part. It will make a huge difference in creating a warmer, more inclusive sport environment for everyone.

Hockey NWT and Table Tennis North have taken a significant step towards fostering a more inclusive and diverse sporting environment by coming together to form a joint committee focused on Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI). 

This collaborative initiative is a testament to their commitment to ensuring that all participants, regardless of their background, feel welcomed, respected, and valued. The committee aims to promote equal opportunities, celebrate diversity, and foster an inclusive culture within both sports. By working together, Hockey NWT and Table Tennis North are setting a precedent for other sporting organizations, demonstrating that unity and collaboration are key to achieving progress in EDI. This joint committee is not just about policy-making, but also about creating a positive change in the sporting community, where everyone can thrive and enjoy the sports they love.

Committee Member Shakita Jensen (she/her), “What I am most excited for is being part of an initiative that aims to diminish barriers and celebrate diversity, making sport a safe and enjoyable environment for all.”

The committee is committed to foster an inclusive and diverse environment within the organizations. It was created for the benefit of all and aims to have representation across the entirety of the NWT. You will see our members at the Arctic Winter Games trials this week, so if you see them say “Hi” to Thorsten, Beverly and Shakita. 

We are always open to welcoming more members who share our values and are passionate about promoting equity and diversity in sports. If you would like to learn more or get involved, please send an email to media@hockeynorth.ca or info@tabletennisnorth.ca. Our committee is proud of the diversity we have already achieved and will continue to work towards creating an inclusive space for all.

Two young female NWT athletes, Raine Mingo and Emma Carey,  had the opportunity to attend the Play to Lead Summit in Edmonton over the weekend. 

The Canadian Tire Jumpstart Foundation’s Play to Lead initiative is making a significant impact by empowering young women to develop leadership skills and promoting gender equality and diversity in sports.

Both athletes were able to take part in sessions that helped develop their leadership skills while building lasting relationships with like-minded peers.  When asking Raine to reflect on the summit, she said “I had an incredible time at the Canadian Tire Jumpstart Charities Play to Lead Summit in Edmonton.  I’ve learned lots of new things and ways to bring back the sense of confidence and inclusion in the female athlete world.” Raine is appreciative of the valuable knowledge and strategies she gained at the conference, emphasizing the importance of confidence and inclusion for female athletes. This demonstrates the impact that Play to Lead has on participants’ understanding and ability to create positive change in the sports community.

Additionally, Emma was thankful for the personal growth and motivation she gained from the workshops.  ” All the workshops provided valuable lessons and motivation, benefiting my personal growth as both an individual, athlete and coach.  It is my wish to enhance my own abilities and empower young female athletes to pursue their passion for sports and promote gender equality and diversity in sports in the NWT”. It is heartening to see that Emma aspires not only to enhance her own abilities but also to empower other young female athletes in the North to pursue their passions and advocate for gender equity and diversity in sports.

The Play to Lead Summit not only offers valuable lessons and motivation but also encourages athletes to become change agents in their communities. By equipping young women with the tools they need to be leaders, Play to Lead is fostering a more inclusive and equitable sports environment.