“Do you feel like you fit in?” Well, maybe we’re getting a substandard question because we’re asking the wrong question. During Episode 28, Shaunna and Lisa dive into the notion of “fit versus add” starting with Oprah’s recent interview of Meghan Markle and Prince Harry.

What does it mean to fit into a system versus adding to a system? As co-hosts, Shaunna and Lisa feel strongly that diversity adds great benefits to a system, but we also realize that many organizations are simply stating their beliefs with very few actions to match. There are many systems (such as the British Monarchy) that have no interest in diversity at all. The Royal Family is an entire system that has prided itself on NOT added, therefore -- we watched with no surprise, simply listening for new articulations of a familiar refrain. Maintenance of the status quo has become the essence of who they are and history hijacks any opportunity to ensure that different folks are included. In fact, exclusion can become a family business...THE actual business itself.

In endurance sport, many organizations have suggested that they do not want to perpetuate the status quo. Given that, we want to shine a light on the use of a person not “fitting” as a means of exclusion. Organizations are simply not willing to pay the cost -- in money, time, human resources, or space -- to ensure that historically-excluded groups are now firmly included. Yes, it is countercultural, but not all culture is life-giving, inclusive, or sound.

Similar to Prince Harry’s sentiments, Shaunna and Lisa don’t understand why endurance sport doesn’t take the great opportunity to get to know the needs of current underrepresented athletes and attract more oppressed groups to our communities. Such communities may not need endurance sport, but we surely need their talents, abilities, and perspectives in our athletic community. Listen in and let us know what you think about “Fit versus Add”.

Watch Purl here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B6uuIHpFkuo

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