Stagnant Evolution

Although the current state of racial diversity in the industry is upsetting, I can’t help but think what it was ten years ago. I also can’t help but think what it will be like in ten years. Riders of colour shouldn’t have to wait ten years to find out. 

Many leading equine companies have the platform and presence to embrace racial diversity but lack the desire to initiate such a conversation. When I was younger, my sister and I were the only Asians in the riding school - in fact, the whole barn. Because of this, I’ve always been aware of the lack of racial representation in the sport.

It was even more noticeable when I started creating content on social media. I was one of very few Asian riders producing equestrian content, and was, therefore, unsure of how the community would react when I wrote my open letter to the equestrian industry. I remember shaking by my phone waiting for the responses to roll in once I hit the ”publish” button. The comments ranged from encouraging messages to cruel sentiments, but I chose to react to the positive ones.

I wrote the letter for my 8 year-old self, when I felt insecure when walking into a tack shop, going to view a barn, and attending industry events. I was never one to go with the status-quo, and I believe it was my passion for animals that made me resilient in this sport. But I know that this isn’t the case for some. 

There are two major initiatives the industry needs to achieve in order to improve diversity in the sport. The first: Marketing efforts and promotional materials. I’ve mentioned previously that there is an intangible feeling when a child does not see their own ethnicity being represented. Seeing riders of different ethnicities encourages racial minorities to join the sport. The second: Hiring employees of colour. Companies need to demonstrate racial diversity internally. I would  hope that if marketing efforts and promotional materials are achieved, riders of colour would feel encouraged to apply for jobs in the industry. Furthermore, companies should  advertise for openings with EEOs that are motivational, encouraging, and inspiring for future employees.  

The equine world is one the slowest to embrace racial diversity because the industry is complacent with upholding practices that have been around for a long time.  All industries have struggled with racial diversity, but what matters is how the industry reacts to challenging conversations and how willing the industry is to stray from antiquated traditions and methods.