Sports are deeply ingrained in American society, uniting individuals both on the playing field, in their own backyards, and in front of the television. However, sports also can profoundly unite people on a much larger scale, transcending continents, cultures, and diverse backgrounds. This remarkable phenomenon is commonly referred to as sports diplomacy.
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Government’s Involvement in Encouraging Sports Diplomacy
The biggest shift in sports diplomacy for women has reached new heights for programs and schools throughout Kentucky and the United States over the last decade. One of the leading factors assisting this shift is the government’s direct involvement.
In the dynamic field of diplomacy, numerous efforts exist to foster people-to-people diplomacy and establish connections across cultural barriers. Additionally, various initiatives aim to enhance opportunities for marginalized groups and promote equality and empowerment.
With these objectives in mind, the U.S. Department of State established the Empowering Women and Girls through Sports Initiative. This initiative operates within the SportsUnited sports diplomacy division and encompasses various programs, including the Sports Visitors Program, the Sports Envoys Program, and the Global Sports Mentoring Program. Each of these programs has its own unique scope and goals, all of which contribute to the overarching objective of empowerment and societal transformation through sports.
Many industries within sports have transformed to bolster a female presence and shine a light on equality. From sports presenting, analyst work, photography, and of course, the promotion of women’s sports itself. Even the best Kentucky betting apps within the sports betting industry have witnessed a massive influx of women/girls’ participation and involvement, further pushing discrimination to the back of the line. And the sports initiatives in Kentucky and USA are the perfect playing ground for young girls and passionate women to hone their craft.
Such initiatives boast the potential to empower women and girls both domestically and abroad, thus providing connections in various working sports industries at a national and global level.
The primary objectives/advantages of sports diplomacy and global connections include:
- Women and girls can enhance their professional outreach, develop their identity, and access new opportunities by participating in sports.
- Sports can act as a platform for women and girls to take on leadership roles and contribute to decision-making processes.
- Sports can bring people from different backgrounds, cultures, and beliefs together, fostering tolerance and understanding among individuals and communities.
- By engaging in sports, girls can challenge societal gender stereotypes and combat discriminatory attitudes.
- Sports teams and businesses provide an ideal platform to disseminate information and encourage discussions on the importance of girls’ education.
- Research indicates a strong link between girls’ sports involvement and higher education and employment levels.
- Studies have shown that each year of fundamental education is associated with a 10-20 percent increase in women’s wages later in life, while each year of secondary education results in a 15-25 percent increase.
Connecting & Empowering Women in Kentucky
In 2016, the UK Global Center for Sports Diplomacy arrived at the University of Kentucky as a brand-new initiative.
This initiative is led by Mushett and Ben Johnson, the professor, and chair of the Department of Kinesiology and Health Promotion at the UK College of Education; this initiative focuses on utilizing sports to foster connection, instill confidence, promote good health and wellness, and increase visibility.
Mushett and Johnson have spearheaded numerous sports programs for diminished societies and worked closely with sports and schooling leaders. While the overall approach remains consistent, they make necessary adjustments to accommodate the unique cultural contexts of each country.
Previously, the duo, accompanied by two students from the College of Education, visited Tanzania, an East African nation, to advocate for human rights and drive an impact through sports for individuals with disabilities. This program was made possible through funding from the SportsUnited division of the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs.
As they continue to establish the UK Global Center for Sports Diplomacy, they anticipate conducting further research on the impacts of sports, enhancing collaborations with both national and international partners, and involving the Lexington community. This initiative is just one of many flourishing in the state of Kentucky, the United States, and worldwide. More importantly, the future for women and girls in sports continues on a prosperous uptrend with these programs in place.
