July 17, 2020 – Langford, BC: Rugby Canada announced today the establishment of an
internal Black, Indigenous, and People of Colour (BIPOC) Working Group to assist in the
development of policies, education and training to ensure rugby in Canada is free of racism.
Comprised of representatives from Senior National Teams and Rugby Canada staff, the working
group has been meeting with focus on the following areas:

• Development of updated anti-BIPOC racism policies for all Rugby Canada staff, athletes,
Board members & related organizations;
• Development of training curriculum and annual completion standards for all staff,
athletes, Board members & related organizations on anti-BIPOC racism;
• Development of an independent 3rd party complaint & investigation body;
• Updated outreach objectives for indigenous, marginalized & low-income communities to
be included in the Rugby Canada Strategic Plan.

Rugby Canada Chairman Tim Powers stated, “This crucial initiative is fully supported by our
Board. Our sport, like every other organization, needs to do all that we can to stop racism and
end intolerance.”

In addition to the BIPOC Working Group, Rugby Canada announced the adoption of a zerotolerance environment for racism, abuse, harassment or maltreatment in its workplace and
training spaces. Working in close collaboration with Provincial Rugby Unions and Member
Clubs, the goal is to introduce and enforce the zero-tolerance policy throughout the entire rugby
sport system in Canada.

Rugby Canada CEO Allen Vansen said, “While much work has been done to ensure equality and
inclusivity in the sport of rugby, there is definitely more to do. These next steps are integral to
creating the inclusive community we strive for, and I’m excited to be working closely with our
BIPOC Working Group.”
Vansen added, “I’ve been particularly inspired and impressed by some of the outstanding efforts
and initiatives several of our athletes have been undertaking in our communities, notably Pam
Buisa, Charity Williams and Josiah Morra. These young athletes have been demonstrating
amazing leadership in the community and have been invaluable in guiding us at Rugby Canada
to be better.”