USRowing Signs the IWG’s Brighton plus Helsinki Declaration

USRowing became the latest signatory of the IWG’s Brighton plus Helsinki Declaration, bolstering our commitment to improving gender equality as part of our comprehensive DEI plan.

The Brighton Plus Helsinki Declaration is an international treaty which supports the ongoing development of a more fair and equitable system of sport and physical activity, fully inclusive of women and girls. By becoming a signatory, USRowing has committed to enabling women and girls to participate, compete and build careers within the sport of rowing.

The Declaration signing took place at the Head of the Charles Regatta in Boston, Massachusetts, on October 19, with Amanda Kraus, CEO, Will Bott, Director of United We Row, and Jess Jackson, Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Associate, signing on behalf of USRowing.

USRowing’s United We Row initiative focuses on supporting rowing programs, coaches, athletes, and anyone interested in advancing the sport of rowing to diversify and grow their programs. This past year, United We Row awarded seven grants to rowing programs across the country who are working to make rowing more accessible to their community. The United We Row scholarships break down financial barriers so rowers, coxswains, and coaches can pursue their goals on the water.

Chair Annamarie Phelps CBE OLY represented IWG at the signing, and speaking afterwards said: “It’s a pleasure to welcome USRowing as the latest signatory to the Brighton plus Helsinki Declaration, and it’s great to have another rowing federation follow suit after World Rowing signed in June.

“The ‘United We Row’ initiative is a brilliant example of a considered approach to growing and diversifying USRowing’s programs, and coupled with their comprehensive DEI strategy provides a fantastic roadmap for improving gender equality. I was able to see the programs and progress in action at the Head of the Charles Regatta in Boston, and I’m really pleased we can share their great work as a case study for other National Federations to consider when designing and implementing their own gender equality action plans.”

Amanda Kraus said: “Signing the declaration marks a pivotal moment for USRowing to reaffirm our unwavering commitment to equality in sport. Rowing led the charge in advancing women's rights and Title IX with the 1976 Yale Women's Crew protest. By endorsing this declaration, USRowing is not just honoring that legacy but boldly committing to driving equality forward through United We Row and championing progress for future generations.”