BHA Strategy to Address Racism and Promote Inclusion in Horse Racing
The British Horseracing Authority (BHA) has revealed a new equality, diversity, and inclusion strategy aimed at confronting a "consistent pattern" of racism reported by individuals from ethnically and culturally diverse backgrounds working within the sport. This initiative is designed to ensure the "long-term health" of horse racing, according to BHA chief executive Brant Dunshea.
The strategy is informed by research commissioned by the BHA that explores the experiences of underrepresented groups, including women, LGBTQ+ individuals, and ethnically and culturally diverse employees in horse racing.
"The strategy outlines a vision for a sport where everyone feels respected, valued and able to fulfil their potential,"the BHA stated.
"It is based on evidence and the experiences of racing's workforce, many of whom have positive experiences, but not all."
Research Findings on Racism and Barriers
The research highlighted several challenges faced by underrepresented groups, including negative experiences, hidden barriers to career progression, inconsistent support, and a lack of trust in reporting systems.
A specific study focusing on the Urban Equestrian Academy—a social enterprise providing access to horses and equestrian activities for people from inner-city and diverse backgrounds—found that all 20 participants reported experiencing racism. Furthermore, every participant indicated that race had influenced their career progression within the sport.
One participant disclosed the severe personal impact of such treatment, sharing that they had contemplated suicide "on a few occasions because of the way I was treated."
In a separate survey, 40% (67 respondents) reported having experienced, witnessed, or been informed of inappropriate or poor behaviour related to ethnicity or cultural background. Some accounts included verbal abuse with aggressive racist language, such as "dirty refugee" and "better off if you had been bombed."
Gender Disparities in Horse Racing
The strategy also addresses significant gender disparities within the sport. Despite women comprising 70% of racing school students and 50% of racing staff, they represent only 25% of jockeys. Moreover, women receive just 9% of rides overall and only 3% in top-tier races.
"The strategy is rooted in evidence and shaped by the lived experiences of people working in racing today, and we offer a huge thank you to those who have taken the time and shown the courage to share these with us,"said Rose Grissell, the BHA's head of diversity and inclusion.
"Many have positive experiences, but not everyone does, and acknowledging that is an important step in supporting positive progress.
Our aim is to make inclusion part of everyday practice, not an optional extra."
Key Proposals of the New Strategy
The BHA's equality, diversity, and inclusion strategy includes several key proposals to foster a more inclusive environment in horse racing:
- Strengthen leadership and accountability
- Build equitable practices to address bias and barriers
- Improve education and awareness to act inclusively
- Better support and celebrate an inclusive culture
- Engage new audiences and make the sport more accessible
Leadership Perspective
Brant Dunshea, BHA chief executive, emphasized the importance of the strategy for the sport's future, stating:
"To attract talent, fans and investment, we must ensure that everyone who works in or engages with racing feels safe, respected and able to thrive."
"British racing is at its best when it is open, welcoming and reflective of the society around us."
