USAWP Racial Equity & Reform Task Force Announces Creation Of Board Designated Fund

Irvine, CA – September 30, 2020 – The USA Water Polo Racial Equity and Reform Task Force is proud to announce the creation of a board designated fund in support of diversity, equity and inclusion. The fund was approved at the most recent USA Water Polo Board of Directors meeting earlier this month that included a renewed commitment to a zero-tolerance policy in the areas of racism, bias and intimidation in any form throughout USA Water Polo.

"On behalf of Brenda and the entire Task Force, we extend our gratitude to the USA Water Polo Board of Directors and to the broader water polo community for responding to the needs and experiences of our membership. We all have the opportunity to make a tangible impact on building the infrastructure and resources needed to help water polo become more inclusive," said John Abdou, USA Water Polo Chief High Performance Officer and Racial Equity & Reform Task Force Co-Chair.

Now available through USA Water Polo's donation portal, the fund will focus on variety of initiatives including:

- USAWP membership outreach to under-resourced communities

- Provide funding and equipment to facilities in need

- Fund coaching and mentorship programs in underserved communities in conjunction with municipalities and multi-sport organizations

- Education and training for all USAWP community members including staff, board, athletes, coaches, referees and parents.

- Partnership development with other community organizations looking to advance water safety awareness, drowning prevention education and diversity among all aquatic disciplines.

To make a donation to the diversity, equity and inclusion fund click here.

https://usawaterpoloinc.networkforgood.com/projects/89336-annual-giving-2020

Then select 'Donate' and then select 'diversity, equity and inclusion' under the dropdown menu along with your donation amount, frequency and optional public note.

USA Water Polo announced the creation of the Racial Equity & Reform Task Force on June 16. On July 16, nine appointments were announced to the task force representing a variety of backgrounds and experience from across the country.

About USA Water Polo
USA Water Polo, Inc., is the national governing body for water polo in America, overseeing our United States Olympic program as well as 20 championship events annually, such as Junior Olympics and Masters National Championships. With more than 50,000 members, USAWP also is the sanctioning authority for more than 500 Member Clubs and more than 400 tournaments nationwide. USAWP is committed to the development of the sport throughout the U.S. It fosters grass-roots expansion of the sport, providing a national system of affiliated clubs, certified coaches, and officials.  

Greg Mescall
Director of Communications, USA Water Polo