The USASF, as the national governing authority for All Star, has a history that embraces and welcomes all into our sport. Oftentimes described as “the sport that has a home for everyone,” our mission and core values have supported our intent to invite and include all. Conversations with our members in the black community about recent events and the current climate in our country concerning racism have caused us to understand that we have more to do in this area.

We have tackled the topics of gender identity, sexual abuse and sexual exploitation by connecting experts in those fields with our members to provide awareness, education, tools and resources. We are tackling the topic of racism with equal vigor and will not allow it to exist in All Star.

The USASF is committed to seeking out racial and ethnic biases and inequities by consistently reviewing our processes and our policies. We stand firm in our resolve to ensure that our staff and our members address, educate and resolve any issues of racial or social injustice within our sport and create and enforce rules that combat racism.

As we review our efforts we also recognize there are areas that require immediate action and some that will need further exploration, discussion and strategic planning, and must encompass policies and protocols that ensure a shared and equal experience within All Star for all who choose to participate.

Upon further discussion and review of the existing policies and protocols, we are moving forward with the following:

1. Broaden the scope of The Connection Committee to address specific issues of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Sensitivity.
2. Open the opportunity for USASF Members interested in serving in The Connection to apply for one of the five seats we are adding to the current committee.
3. Review and update the USASF Professional Responsibility Code to address expectations regarding racism.
4. Include in all committee and board meetings the strategic planning of programs and initiatives targeting Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Sensitivity.
5. Provide education and resources to all members of the USASF.

June 5,  2020

The USASF’s core priority is our members.

We recognize that the last three months have been challenging beyond measure. We have endured an abruptly interrupted competition season, witnessed the cancellation of events intended to unite the All Star community and were unable to celebrate some of life’s most important milestones as a result of a global health crisis. And, just as we were beginning to recover, our world was yet again upended.

The highly visible and horrifying murder of a Black man by a White police officer profoundly impacted us all. The death of George Floyd outraged an already unsettled nation and weighs heavily on all of our hearts. Our deepest condolences go out to the family of George Floyd.

We further recognize that words of grief and support for change are not enough. Now is the time to move from conversation to action. As an organization, the USASF has never been afraid to take necessary action. We have tackled the topics of gender identity and sexual abuse and exploitation by connecting experts in those fields with our members to provide awareness, education, tools and resources. We even established more stringent requirements for membership. And, while conversations surrounding Race can elicit a range of emotions, we are addressing this area too.

The USASF is committed to ensuring Diversity, Equity and Inclusion. Our conversations started long before this moment and we will continue this important dialogue. Earlier this week, several of our staff members joined a call with leaders from Black Girls Cheer and The Cheer Leaders’ Alliance to better understand the emotions and experiences of our Black members in the current climate. We participated in meaningful dialogue aimed at establishing a unified path forward.

We have established an initial team of experts to include Sharita Richardson of Black Girls Cheer and Veronica Burton of The Cheer Leaders’ Alliance who will help us directly address Diversity, Equity and Inclusion in our sport. We look forward to expanding this team and keeping you up to date on our progress. If you would like to participate in conversations or committees in these efforts, please indicate your interest on this form. Our staff will contact you as soon as plans come together.

Our world has changed, and as we move forward, we will work together to address the challenges that face us while continuing to achieve our mission to support and enrich the lives of our athletes and members. All Star is a sport that welcomes everyone. Every Race, size, sexual preference, gender identity and ability. There’s a place for everyone. We welcome you just as you are.

Join us.

The USASF Staff Family