AASP Newsletter - March 2020

Sponsored by the AASP Diversity Committee and Student Social Justice Initiative

Upcoming:

The 5th annual AASP Diversity in Sport Regional Conference will be held on the campus of the University of North Carolina at Greensboro on April 3-4, 2020. Visit the conference website to learn more or submit a proposal.

We are also pleased to announce the 2020 IGNITE Program, which will occur on the morning of April 3, 2020 in advance of the Diversity in Sport Regional Conference.

The IGNITE Program brings together speakers from the sport industry to offer diverse students and early career professionals of color (LGBTQQI, race, ethnicity, class, gender, ability, and religion) with a personal and professional development experience that will enhance their careers in sport psychology.

Attendees can expect the following: 

• Develop and hone leadership skills.
• Discuss career goals and learn about ways to increase professional opportunities.  
• Network with leaders in sport. 
• Build a supportive network of diverse professionals in sport.
• Learn and build skills for navigating the sport profession. 

Important Dates

Since 1987, March has been designated as Women’s History Month. The purpose is to recognize the valuable contributions of women to history and culture. On March 8 we celebrate International Women’s Day and honor women’s rights and achievements. March is also National Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month. For more info, visit https://nacdd.org/ddam/. March 21 celebrates one of the most colorful religious festivals in India, Nepal, and Sri Lanka called ‘Holi’ and it is also International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination. March 17 is St. Patrick’s Day in honor of the patron saint of Ireland. On the last day of March, we recognize International Transgender Day of Visibility, a time to celebrate trans and non-binary people and the courage they put forth to live authentically. Read the stories of several trailblazers plus NCCA's Guide for Transgender Athletes here.

April is Autism Awareness Month and Celebrate Diversity Month. The intention of Autism Awareness Month is to raise awareness of neurodiversity and April 2 is World Autism Awareness Day. Since 2004, Diversity Month highlights inclusion and celebrates the differences in us all. Please see AASP's Position Statement on Human Diversity for more on what the association is doing to create an inclusive environment for our members. April 6 is National Tartan Day commemorating the Scottish Declaration of Independence while April 7 is World Health Day. This year we recognize the roles played by nurses and midwives in healthcare worldwide. April 8 is Buddha Day and signifies the birth of Gautama Buddha. Good Friday is a day of fasting and penance for many Christians and falls on April 19. April 22 is Earth Day and advocates the protection of the environment and its vital resources.

Remember, stay connected and follow @AASPTweets for future diversity updates!