Volunteers’ Understanding of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in Para-Sport Events

Abstract

This study aimed to explore how volunteers participating in a para-sport event understood the concepts of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). To identify the key components of DEI, we adapted the Ten-Statement Test, asking volunteers, ‘‘What keywords or phrases come to mind when you think of DEI in para-sport events?’’ A total of 352 volunteers involved in the 2024 World Para-Athletics Championship participated. After excluding low-reliability items and combining duplicates, 697 keywords were analyzed. Thematic analysis revealed 118 diversity keywords that were grouped into five categories: (1) subject, (2) variety, (3) understanding and respect, (4) distinction, and (5) differences. Twenty-four equity keywords were identified and grouped into seven categories: (1) equality, (2) accessibility, (3) accommodation, (4) inequality, (5) legality, (6) security, and (7) opportunity. Finally, 52 inclusion keywords were identified and grouped into six groups: (1) harmony, (2) support, (3) communication, (4) vitality, (5) participation, and (6) independence. This study provides insights for developing strategies to enhance DEI at future para-sport events.