Razorbacks Athletics Adopt Unity Pledge
FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. – The University of Arkansas Athletics Department announced the creation of a Unity Pledge, the purpose of which is to further unite student-athletes, coaches, staff and administrators.
“As a Razorback Athletics family, we are comprised of individuals with differing genders, races, beliefs and backgrounds,” said Hunter Yurachek, Vice Chancellor and Director of Athletics. “Our program is strengthened by the diversity of our individual members and emboldened by our collective support for others that extends beyond the playing fields and courts of competition. The Unity Pledge is a shared commitment to actively work as One Razorback Community to achieve these vital goals.”
Championed by junior distance runner Matt Young, the pledge supports Hogs UNITED’s mission of education, advocacy and action and serves as a visual reminder supporting the campus goals of enriching diversity and inclusion and building a collaborative and innovative campus.
“I’m thrilled to have played a part with my fellow student-athletes in the creation of this important pledge that encourages inclusivity and sets a standard for the Razorback community,” said Matt Young, chair of the Diversity and Inclusion Committee of the Student-Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC) member.
The pledge, which will be shared with all members of the athletics department as well as on the Hogs UNITED website and social media channels, encourages a proactive approach in demonstrating respect, inclusion, understanding and protection.
“After many months of reviews and edits, it’s with great pride that we unveil our Unity Pledge,” said Erica Nelson-Flowers, Director of Student-Athlete Development and vice chair of Hogs UNITED. “Many thanks to the student-athletes and staff, including members of the Programming and Events Committee and SAAC, whose contributions led us to this day. This pledge will serve as a daily reminder of what our Athletic Department stands for and I’m humbled to have played a part in its creation.”
The adoption of the Unity Pledge is one initiative among many that the department and the Hogs UNITED action committee are working to bring to campus.
Subcommittees are also working on plans to create programming, messaging, evaluate facilities, collect relevant data and review hiring and retention practices.
Visit ArkansasRazorbacks.com for the latest information on the Athletics Department’s diversity and inclusion initiatives. You can also find more information on social media by following @HogsUNITED.
