mexico Launches Campaign Against Gender-Based violence in Sports
Mexico is taking decisive action against gender-based violence within the sports sector, spearheaded by Senator Virginia “Kikis” Magaña and the National Commission for Physical Culture and Sports (Conade). This initiative responds to numerous reports of abuse, including sexual assault, faced by female athletes.
Spate of Abuse Allegations prompts Action
The campaign follows high-profile cases, including allegations from seven gymnasts in Monterrey who accused their coach, Eduardo Damazo Rodríguez Hinojosa, of sexual abuse.Additionally, Par American medalist in badminton, Harama Gaitán, publicly alleged harassment by officials from the Nuevo León State Institute of Physical Culture and Sports. Gaitán claims that after seeking help and reporting the abuse internally, she was accused of defamation and making false statements.
Legislative Reform Seeks to Eradicate Abuse
Senator Magaña introduced an initiative on March 21st to reform the Law of Physical Culture and Sports,aiming to eradicate gender-based violence in sports. This reform is a direct response to the experiences shared by numerous athletes. According to the 2021 census on athletes’ rights, 20% of female athletes surveyed reported experiencing some form of sexual abuse.
Widespread Problem Across Sports
A survey conducted by ESPN revealed that 76% of women in soccer, summer, and winter Olympic sports reported experiencing violence. “We are reforming to integrate the issue of gender outlook and the obligation of training with a gender perspective and human rights,” explained Senator Magaña.
Conade Supports Initiative
The Director-General of Conade, Rommel Pacheco, attended the press conference held by Senator magaña, signaling his support for the initiative and acknowledging the significance of addressing gender-based violence in sports.
CONADE steps Up Fight Against Gender Violence, Mandates Certification for Coaches
MEXICO CITY – Mexico’s National Commission for Physical Culture and Sports (CONADE) is intensifying its efforts to combat gender violence within sports. the agency announced new measures, including mandatory certification for coaches and collaboration with women’s secretariats and specialized foundations, signaling a zero-tolerance approach to mistreatment and revictimization.
CONADE Prioritizes Support for Victims, Collaboration with Women’s Secretariat
CONADE is actively coordinating with the Secretariat of Women to refine mechanisms for addressing complaints. The agency emphasizes that it will not tolerate rejection or revictimization of individuals who come forward, but instead offer support and protection.
Mandatory Training and Certification to Combat Gender Violence
All CONADE personnel are now required to complete training courses focused on preventing gender violence. This initiative extends to the National School of Sports Coaches (ENED), ensuring that future coaches are equipped with the knowledge and education necessary to prevent violence against women in all areas of sports.
Olympic committee to develop Certification Program
The Mexican Olympic Committee will develop a certification program addressing gender violence. Coaches must be certified to participate in the Olympic process, including the Summer and Winter Olympic and Paralympic Games. This certification extends to all preparatory and qualifying competitions, including the Central American and Caribbean Games and the Pan American Games.
Mexico Mandates Gender violence Prevention Training for Young athletes
Mexico is implementing mandatory gender violence prevention training for young athletes participating in the National Olympiad. The initiative extends beyond athletes, requiring coaches and support staff to also complete certification courses.
Protecting Young Athletes: Mandatory Training for National Olympiad Participants
The program aims to create a safer and more inclusive habitat for young athletes. Rommel Pacheco emphasized the positive change being driven by incorporating diverse perspectives, particularly focusing on gender, and prioritizing the athlete within their support system.
Comprehensive Program Includes Training for Children
The comprehensive program includes courses specifically designed and organized for children. to be eligible to compete, young athletes must demonstrate completion of this training.
Coaches and Support Staff Also Required to Certify
Adding another layer of security and accountability, coaches are required to complete certification courses to be able to participate in the National Olympiad.
Here are two PAA (Personally Accountable Action) related questions, suitable for teh provided Q&A on Mexico’s fight against gender-based violence in sports:
Mexico’s Fight Against Gender-Based Violence in Sports: A Q&A
mexico is leading a crucial initiative to combat gender-based violence within its sports sector. This extensive effort, spearheaded by Senator Virginia “Kikis” Magaña and CONADE, aims to protect athletes and create a safer, more inclusive habitat. Here’s a breakdown of the key aspects:
Q&A:
What triggered this campaign?
The campaign was prompted by numerous reports of abuse, including sexual assault, faced by female athletes. High-profile cases, such as the allegations against a gymnastics coach in Monterrey and harassment claims by a badminton player, brought the issue to the forefront.The 2021 census on athletes’ rights revealed that 20% of female athletes reported experiencing sexual abuse.
What specific legislative changes are being implemented?
Senator Magaña introduced a reform to the law of Physical Culture and Sports on March 21st. This reform aims to integrate the issue of gender outlook and training with a gender perspective and human rights. this includes mandatory training and certification for coaches, support staff and athletes themselves.
What actions is CONADE taking?
CONADE is actively supporting the initiative by:
- Mandating certification for all coaches and CONADE personnel.
- Collaborating with women’s secretariats and specialized foundations to refine complaint mechanisms.
- Offering support and protection to victims, with a zero-tolerance policy against revictimization.
What is the role of the Mexican Olympic Committee?
The Mexican Olympic Committee is developing a certification program on gender violence. This certification will be mandatory for coaches participating in the Olympic process, including the Summer and Winter Olympics, and other qualifying competitions like the Central American and Caribbean Games and the Pan American games.
How are young athletes being protected?
Mandatory gender violence prevention training is being implemented for young athletes participating in the National Olympiad. This includes:
- Courses designed specifically for children.
- Certification courses for coaches and support staff.
What can I do to support this cause?
Educate yourself and others about gender-based violence in sports. Support organizations working to protect athletes’ rights. Advocate for policies that promote safety and inclusivity in all levels of sport. Report any incidents of abuse to the appropriate authorities. Volunteer or donate to a local sports organization that prioritizes athlete safety and well-being.
Fun Fact: Did you know that the first modern Olympic Games in 1896 were only open to male athletes? Women weren’t allowed to compete until 1900!
Mexico’s commitment to eradicating gender-based violence in sports is a significant step towards creating a safer and fairer environment for all athletes. Support and awareness are critical to the success of thes initiatives.
