Disrupting Anti-Black Racism in Physical Education and Sport

Inclusive Health and Physical Education (H&PE) programming that affirms and celebrates a variety of identities is crucial so that every student is empowered to experience feelings of belonging within H&PE and enjoy the lifelong benefits of healthy, active living.   

Without intentional planning and consideration from educators and school staff, H&PE learning environments are at risk of becoming sites of discrimination, exclusion, and/or other harm for Black students due to manifestations of anti-Black racism in our teaching practices. 

The frameworks within the education system and H&PE learning environments are legacies of colonial and Euro-centric perspectives that favour ways of understanding movement, physical activity, health and well-being that are deeply rooted in white, capitalist values. This approach has led to a culture in H&PE that emphasizes individual achievement, competitive sports, and the prevention of chronic disease and obesity, often at the expense of community connectedness, cultural diversity and holistic well-being. 

The relationship between Black bodies and physical activity is deeply influenced by centuries of anti-Black racism, colonization and the Trans-Atlantic slave trade. These historical injustices contribute to ongoing systemic anti-Black racism and discriminatory practices. Through Afro-centric approaches that centre the experiences, cultures, and histories of the Black Diaspora and local Black communities (including parents/caregivers and families), educators can create inclusive spaces that celebrate diversity, promote holistic well-being, and allow space for every student to thrive. 

Read Ophea’s position statement on Disrupting Anti-Black Racism in H&PE (PDF).  

Stop, Start, Consider!: Disrupting Anti-Black Racism in Physical Education and Sport posters aim to support educators and school community members in reflecting on and adopting practices that can create affirming Physical Education (PE) environments for Black students, especially those who experience multiple marginalizations based on intersecting identities.   

Inclusive teaching practices that affirm a wider range of lived experiences foster students’ feelings of belonging (Hernández & Darling-Hammond, 2022). These approaches also improve learning outcomes and are associated with positive mental health and well-being (Darling-Hammond & Cook-Harvey, 2018; Farrington, et al., 2012). 

For additional information, strategies and planning supports for culturally responsive and inclusive H&PE learning environments, explore Ophea’s Culturally Responsive and Relevant Pedagogy in Health and Physical Education resource.

The Stop, Start, Consider!: Disrupting Anti-Black Racism in Physical Education and Sport poster series was developed in partnership with various interest holders, subject matter experts (including Black youth with lived experience) and community partners.