The Sydney Swans and Down Syndrome NSW will join forces as part of the Sydney Swans’ next Diversity Action Plan.
The partnership was announced at an event held at NSW Parliament to celebrate World Down Syndrome Day.
The day is marked each year on March 21, signifying the uniqueness of the triplication of the 21st chromosome, which causes Down syndrome.
The Sydney Swans first launched a Diversity Action Plan in 2017 to formalise commitments in four key pillars:
- Disability empowerment
- LGBTIQ+ pride
- Multicultural inclusion
- Advancement of women
As part of its next Diversity Action Plan (DAP) the club has sought to partner with like-minded organisations to support each key pillar.
Sydney Swans CEO Tom Harley said the partnership with Down Syndrome NSW will span the duration of the next DAP, from 2022-2025.
“Just like our football club, Down Syndrome NSW has an absolute passion for its members and plays a key role in advocacy,” Harley said.
“Our partnership will see us work together to deliver on our commitment to make our club more accessible, including through employment opportunities. At the same time, we will work with Down Syndrome NSW to raise awareness and funds, to assist their important work.
“Our DAP was born from a vision to ensure our games and our football club offer a safe and welcoming environment – we want everyone to feel included. We look forward to working with Down Syndrome NSW to deliver on that vision.”
Down Syndrome NSW President Lorraine Clark said both organisations share a common goal to lead authentic inclusion and diversity.
“Partnering with the Sydney Swans represents an alignment of our values and vision that all people with Down syndrome in NSW will achieve their full potential in all life stages, are valued and take their rightful place in the community,” she said.
“Many of our members with Down syndrome, their families and carers are avid Sydney Swans fans, though our partnership extends well beyond this. The Sydney Swans are pioneering what authentic partnership looks like, backed up by a robust Diversity Action Plan and genuine commitments to engage, employ and empower people with Down syndrome.
“We look forward to the next three years and hope this will act as an exemplary example to other sporting teams and corporate organisations."
The Sydney Swans’ new Diversity Action Plan will be unveiled later this year.
