Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
Iowa Swimming is working to embed diversity, equity, and inclusion into every aspect of our organization. Please contact DEI Committee Chair Hunter Smith to find out how you can help.
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USA Swimming Rule 304.3.2 Discrimination in violation of the Amateur Sports Act which requires that USA Swimming must provide an equal opportunity to athletes, coaches, trainers, managers, administrators, and officials to participate in the sport of swimming. Athletes must be allowed to participate and compete to the fullest extent allowed by the Rules and Regulations. Discrimination against any member or participant on the basis of age, gender, race, ethnicity, culture, religion, sexual orientation, gender expression, gender identity, genetics, mental or physical disability, or any other status protected by federal, state or local law, where applicable, is prohibited.
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LGBTQ
This symbol 
can mean the difference between an athlete wondering if they belong, and knowing they do; between wondering if they are safe with the team, and knowing it.
Critical Ages of Awareness • Between ages 4-6, kids are aware that they are different than others. • Between ages 9-11, kids are aware of sexual attraction. • Between the ages 14-16, kids develop an awareness of sexual orientation. *Ages are approximate, and this is a general timeline.
When someone comes out about their sexual orientation, a lack of acceptance from others can be detrimental to their mental health. For many, it can lead to depression, drug use, risky sexual behavior, and suicidal ideation.
Many athletes look for signs and symbols that indicate that a club or sports team is LGBTQ inclusive. Equality symbols like equal signs, safe space decals, and rainbow logos indicate a safe environment without requiring athletes to disclose their sexual identity. Positive signs and symbols empower the athlete, and empowered athletes are healthier, happier, faster swimmers. Symbols can be very subtle. Small stickers and logos placed on the back of a coach’s clip board, at the top of the team white board, on the team website, or on handouts can immediately signify a welcoming, safe environment. Swimclusion Shop, Lanelines jpg for printing, Equality jpg for printing
USA Swimming LGBTQ Resource Guide
LGBTQ+ webinars from USA Swimming's DEI team
- LGBTQ+ 101 - Basics and Building Allyship lays the framework on how to learn and support the LGBTQ+ community.
- LGBTQ+ 201 - Developing an Understanding explores your relationship and how to be an advocate for this community. (link available soon!)
- LGBTQ+ 301 - Creating Inclusive Policy discusses best practices for advocacy and policy development for the LGBTQ+ community to foster inclusive spaces for athletes, coaches, officials and volunteers.
Pride in Sport - Guidance for Swimming Governing Bodies
Recommended Practices for Gender Diverse Minor Athletes
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When you register each year, checking the box to identify your ethnicity or disability helps USA Swimming identify their true demographic and who they serve. It will also help you to stay informed of opportunities for athletes like you.
Athlete and Non-Athlete Registration
Club - Do you already belong to a club and want to renew registration? Are you new to swimming and looking to join your local club? Contact your club to complete the registration process.
Unattached - contact the IASI Registrar directly. (*For Unattached only. Club-affiliated individuals must register through their clubs).
Outreach Membership in USA Swimming - $5 annual registration, $5 per meet.
USA Swimming Outreach Membership Criteria List- Athletes participating in any of these programs qualify for USA Swimming Outreach membership in Iowa.
Additional DEI Resources
2nd Thursday of the Month DEI Webinars - Content includes topics such as Bullying Prevention, Grants 101, Disability Education, Connection-Accepting-Providing, and more.
Registration links for upcoming (live) webinars
Archived (recorded) DEI webinars
DEI Articles - variety of topics, including Hispanic Heritage, Women Coaches in Governance, Community Impact Grant Program, PRIDE, Juneteenth, Asian American, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander Heritage, Black History, Womens History, Native American Heritage, and more.
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National Diversity Select Camp
Central Zone Diversity Camps and Multicultural Meets - CZ website
Regional Diversity Select Camp - online application is open mid-February to mid-March
National Diversity Select Camp - online application is open mid-January to mid-February
Disability USA Swimming encourages people with disabilities to participate in the sport of swimming and facilitates their inclusion in USA Swimming programs through education and collaboration. We seek to involve people with disabilities in existing competitions and programs for all swimmers, rather than provide unique disability-only opportunities.
Visit the IASI Disability page for more information!
