RIDC Newsletter January 2025: Running Has Always Been More Than Just a Sport
Running Industry Diversity Coalition
Envisioning a running industry committed to racial justice where people of color are welcomed, valued, and amplified.
As 2025 gets going, I’m reminded that our mission at the RIDC to improve inclusion, visibility, and access for Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) goes beyond the running industry. At the core of our efforts is the work we do with you in addressing systemic inequities and building healthier, more empowered communities.?
Running has always been more than just a sport. It’s a tool for strength, resilience, and belonging.
Through RUN THE BLOCK, we’re creating more opportunities for BIPOC ownership and management of retail shops across the country. We’re providing equitable access to meaningful careers at dozens of RIDC member and partner companies. We’re amplifying powerful stories from run clubs and race events that expand and redefine what it means to be a runner. And this year, we are using our trail research to launch a new program “Barriers to Start” where we will work with our partners to help remove obstacles that prevent BIPOC from experiencing the joy and freedom of outdoor movement.
Our initiatives—whether on roads, trails, at running events, or in the office—focus on creating greater access to movement and community as a means to reclaim health, build economic prosperity, and deepen belonging.
Now is a good time to renew your commitment to the RIDC mission. How will you take action?
Have ideas on ways we can work together in 2025 and beyond? Let us know. Just getting started with the RIDC? Start here. Together, we're going to keep making strides toward a running industry that is more inclusive, visibly diverse, open, responsible, and accessible for all.
Say it with me: This is a movement rooted in meaningful change, going beyond headlines, buzzwords, and social media—this work is about creating a real lasting impact for BIPOC communities now and in the future. There’s no time like the present to be a champion for and with the Running Industry Diversity Coalition.
?? Impact Report Survey: Share how the RIDC has supported you or your company efforts during 2024. These insights will help us publish our next report.
?? Don’t Forget About These Quotes When Celebrating the Work of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
?? We are thrilled to announce the promotion of Abigail Hollie to Senior Program Manager for the RIDC. Abigail will be hiring soon!
???? Rising Hearts is raising funds for our athlete, advocate, and community member Jinghuan who lost their home during the wildfires in Los Angeles. Donate today. ?Also, check out this list of links to donate to Black families who have been displaced.
????♀? Game Changers is partnering with New York Road Runners to launch a dedicated New York City cohort. Participants will receive RRCA Certification, business strategy training, mentorship, and a paid apprenticeship.
?? 54% of women more likely to enter an ultramarathon if they can walk. According to a survey by the Threshold Trail Series, over half of women (54%) say they’d be more likely to take on an ultramarathon event if they knew walking was an option.
?? January 18th, 2025 - Atlanta, GA
Join us to celebrate the opening of Big Peach Running Co.'s first Black-owned store. - More Info
?? January 26th, 2025 - Seattle, WA
Meet us for Circle The Block - a run/walk, followed by panel, refreshments and giveaways. - More Info
?? February 1st, 2025 - Charlotte, NC
Sign up for the 2nd Annual Community Unity Cookout where the RIDC will be the beneficiary of this year's fundraising efforts. - More Info
?? February 1st - 4th, 2025 - Louisville, KY
Join us and fellow changemakers in the running space at the Running USA Industry Conference in Louisville, KY. - More Info
Looking for a job? Check out the latest openings from our community member and partner organizations. When you apply for a role, remember to mention that you found the opportunity through the RIDC.