Royal Yachting Association raise the flag for Pride

Inclusivity and diversity remain a priority for the RYA © Royal Yachting Association

The Royal Yachting Association (RYA) will be highlighting the power of inclusivity this Pride month (June 2023), by celebrating the voices and lived experiences of members from their LGBTQIA+ Network.

The national governing body (NGB) will also be highlighting the roles of supportive allies and active bystanders in sailing and boating.

Alongside other NGBs for sport and recreation on the water, RYA colleagues, members of the RYA community and representatives from the Sailing and Cruising Association (Gay Sailing) will be coming together to join the London Pride parade in July.

Pride is about celebration and acceptance, to raise awareness of the successful changes that have been made to challenges of discrimination and legislation. It is also about recognising that there are still changes that need to be made to ensure that people feel that they are truly free to be themselves.

"The foundation of the future of sailing and boating is built upon increasing diversity in the sport," says Sara Sutcliffe, RYA CEO. "Creating inclusive and welcoming spaces where participants feel able to bring their whole selves to the sport is what we're striving to achieve.

"We believe that participating in boating activities can have tremendous positive effects on a person's well-being, an opportunity that should be available to everyone, regardless of a person's romantic and sexual orientation, sex or gender identity."

The RYA will be showing support by raising the progress flag at their head offices in Hamble-le-Rice throughout the month.

To find out more about how the RYA is supporting Pride month in June, visit the RYA website.