A recent review by the Future of Sport in Canada Commission, established by the federal government to investigate systemic abuse in sports, has uncovered widespread mistreatment within the Canadian sports system. Justice Lise Maisonneuve, the commission’s lead, highlighted various forms of abuse such as physical punishment, sexual assault, training under injuries, and discrimination that persist at all levels of sports.
The commission’s preliminary report, released recently, revealed that the current sports environment in Canada emphasizes high performance and medals over values such as respect, diversity, and well-being. It also pointed out the lack of access and opportunities for para-athletes, Black, Indigenous, people of color, and the 2SLGBTQI+ communities.
With 71 preliminary recommendations, the commission aims to enhance safe sport practices and reform the Canadian sports system. One key suggestion is the establishment of a national safe sport authority or tribunal to oversee sport-related legislation in collaboration with provinces and territories.
Furthermore, the report highlighted the need for increased funding for National Sport Organizations (NSOs) and the importance of redirecting attention from elite athletes to supporting youth and local communities. The commission also proposed the implementation of a national registry of sanctioned individuals to improve transparency and accountability in coaching practices.
The commission’s findings have been met with support from advocates like Amelia Cline, managing director of Athletes Empowered, who emphasized the necessity of addressing abuse at all levels of sports. Additionally, investigative sports journalist Laura Robinson commended the recommendation for an independent oversight body for Canadian sports.
While the commission’s recommendations have been well-received, there are concerns about the government’s response, given the absence of a dedicated sports minister in Canada. Secretary of State for Sport Adam van Koeverden, however, expressed the government’s commitment to building a safe and inclusive sports system and welcomed the commission’s efforts.
The activities of the commission will culminate in the National Summit on the Future of Sport in Ottawa in the coming weeks.