OUR COMMITMENT
TO MAKING OUR RIDES INCLUSIVE FOR GENDER NON CONFORMING & TRANS PEOPLE
Hey, Nic here, Director of The New Forest Off Road Club.
In light of the confused and illogical ruling from the UK supreme court on the 16th of April, I’ve decided to make a formal commitment to making our rides inclusive for trans and gender non conforming people.
This will be a process. Whilst we’ve always introduced our ride leaders with pro nouns and talked about how gender is a social construct, we understand we need to bring structure to our allyship.
We have scheduled gender inclusivity training with our ride leaders. We have done this before in 2022 but will review and refresh the training and ensure all ride leaders have had the training before leading a ride.
Contacting independent venues around the Forest and Forestry England will take time but this is being prioritised.
We recognise that this ruling will have far reaching impact for trans people, beyond the use of bathrooms but with our small sphere of influence, we will do what we can to make people know that they are not only welcome in the New Forest Off Road Club, but that they feel safe.
Solidarity with our trans sisters.
At the New Forest Off Road Club, we are committed to creating a safe, welcoming, and inclusive space for trans people, non-binary people, and those who don't conform to traditional gender norms.
As part of this commitment, we will:
CARRY OUT VENUE CHECKS IN ADVANCE
Before visiting cafés, pubs, or accommodation, we will contact venues to ask whether trans and gender non-conforming riders are welcome to use the bathrooms that align with their identity.
““We’d love to visit with our inclusive cycling group and want to ensure trans and gender non-conforming riders feel safe and respected using the facilities that suit them. Is this something your team is comfortable with?”
If a venue cannot guarantee this, we will either choose a different location or inform our group in advance.
2. USE INCLUSIVE LANGUAGE IN EVERYTHING WE SAY
We will avoid gendered greetings like "ladies and gents," and instead use inclusive terms like "everyone," "folks," or "riders."
When promoting events, we will clearly state that all genders are welcome, using language such as:
"We welcome women, trans and non-binary riders, and anyone who wants to ride in a respectful, inclusive space."
3. INVITE PRONOUNS AND RESPECT THEM
We will invite riders to share their pronouns during sign-up or introductions (but never require it) and ensure our leadership team models this practice respectfully.
We will also make sure all volunteers and ride leaders understand the importance of using and respecting pronouns.
4. EDUCATE OUR TEAM
We will provide inclusivity training for our ride leaders and volunteers, covering topics like gender identity, pronouns, how to intervene in moments of disrespect, and how to handle mistakes with care.
Where possible, we will seek advice and support from local LGBTQ+ organisations.
5. OFFER QUIETER WAYS TO DISCLOSE
We will create safe, private ways for riders to communicate any needs, concerns, or access requirements ahead of rides, by offering confidential messaging options.
6. CELEBRATE DIVERSITY IN OUR STORY TELLING
We will actively feature and centre trans and non-binary riders (with consent) across our photos, blogs, interviews, and social media, to ensure that our community reflects the diversity we want to nurture.
7. BUILD RELATIONSHIPS WITH LGBTGI+ GROUPS
We will proactively connect with local trans advocacy groups and LGBTQ+ cycling organisations to build relationships, seek advice, and collaborate where possible.
8. MAINTAIN A CLEAR CODE OF CONDUCT
We will ensure our website and ride information clearly state that:
Transphobia, misgendering, and gatekeeping will not be tolerated.
There is a clear and supportive process for raising and addressing concerns.
RESOURCES & FURTHER READING
Shon Faye. The Transgender Issue - an argument for Justice
Nature and Sex Redefined - We have never been binary
Gender Inclusivity Training* This was created for us by Chat GPT. We are in communications with Mermaids about a bespoke session for our ride leaders, delivered by someone with lived experience.
