Inclusion and Gender Diversity

Given the increasing discourse and debate regarding the participation of transgender people in swimming, Swim Ontario wishes to reaffirm its commitment to inclusion and gender diversity across all aspects of the sport.

As set out in Swim Ontario’s Inclusion and Equity Policy, the organization is committed to encouraging equity, inclusion, and universal participation free from discrimination within its clubs, programs, and activities. There are many different avenues available to foster trans inclusion in swimming, and Swim Ontario is actively working to identify and implement measures, where appropriate given its jurisdiction, to make swimming environments safe and welcoming for people of all gender identities.

In respect specifically to possible eligibility regulations for trans women, Swim Ontario will continue to engage in dialogue with Swimming Canada, while recognizing that decisions on this important issue will be made by FINA. Swim Ontario takes guidance from the International Olympic Committee’s Framework on Fairness, Inclusion and Non-Discrimination on the Basis of Gender Identity and Sex Variations published last November. In accordance with the IOC’s Framework, Swim Ontario considers that any measures intended to preserve fair competition must respect internationally-recognized human rights, avoid causing harm to the health and well-being of athletes, and be grounded in robust evidence.