Together We Rise virtual event to advocate for racial equity in fitness

October 21, 2020

A first-of-its-kind event in Australian fitness is aiming to promote racial equity in the industry through a day of virtual education, meaningful discussions and moving together for change

Being held on Wednesday 28^th October, Together We Rise aims to amplify impactful voices and stories, deconstruct the systems of oppression within the health and wellness industry, and unite collective communities around this movement.

Introducing the event, organisers advise “worldwide, we are experiencing a historic movement for racial justice, equity and representation globally. This movement has provided an opportunity to affect change in every industry, every workplace, on the streets and in our homes.

“It has allowed all of us to take a long, hard look at ourselves, our company cultures, and to start meaningful conversations. As a product of those conversations, Les Mills International, POUND and Piloxing have joined forces to continue this work on a greater scale.

“We believe that we have not done enough, that our industry has not done enough, and that it is time for meaningful, continual and irreversible change.”

Commenting on Les Mills’ backing Diana Mills, Creative Director, Les Mills International, stated “if there is any industry on Earth that must be dedicated to racial justice, equity and representation, it’s the fitness industry.

“We exist to help people - all people - lead healthier lives, and, true health is achieved inside a healthy culture.

“This is a pivotal moment and we humbly and collectively rise together with POUND and PILOXING to launch this movement because it is a part of our work that is imperative if we are to create a fitter planet for all.”

Together We Rise Event Schedule:

8:30am - Opening statements
8:45am - Equity in Fitness - presentation: Dynasti Hunt
9:15am - PILOXING Workout
10am - Anti-Racism Tools for Leaders, Educators and Entrepreneurs, panel: Kellie Wagner & Katrina Pilkington
10:45am - POUND Workout
11:30am - The Black Fitness Experience, panel: Ari Belgrave, Christina Rice, Percell Dugger
12:30pm - Our Collective Impact, panel
1:15pm - LES MILLS Workout
2:00pm - Closing statements
All times are Pacific Daylight Time (PDT)

The event is donation-based, with proceeds going to Pretty Girls Sweat and Fit for Us - foundations committed to bringing wellness and fitness to areas historically excluded from education and opportunity.

Click here to register.

Image courtesy of Les Mills International.

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