USA RAFTING COALITION VALUES

In our journey toward justice and equity, USARC starts every practice, every trip, every race with a sacred lands and waterways acknowledgement. 

BUT IT CAN"T END THERE. We must approach Indigenous river acknowledgements not merely as performative gesture, but as catalysts for meaningful action. 

Sacred waterway acknowledgements serve as a vital recognition of the Indigenous peoples who are the original caretakers of the lands we inhabit. They remind us of the ongoing impact of colonialism and the deep injustices that Indigenous communities continue to face.

While these statements are a step in the right direction, it is imperative that they are paired with tangible actions.  Acknowledgment without commitment can lead to a false sense of completion, allowing individuals and organizations to feel they have done their part without engaging in the more challenging work of supporting Indigenous rights and initiatives. 

To prevent land acknowledgements from becoming empty rhetoric, we must advocate for action—specifically, financial support for Native-led organizations that are actively working to address inequities.

When we participate in a river acknowledgment, we should feel compelled to respond by contributing, however modestly, to organizations dedicated to empowering Native communities. 

USARC is committed to fostering a culture of accountability and activism.  We ensure that our recognition of Indigenous sovereignty is not a mere formality, but a meaningful engagement with the ongoing struggle for justice. 

Let us hold ourselves and each other accountable, committing to action that resonates beyond words, where Indigenous voices are amplified, and their rights and contributions are fully recognized and supported.

At USARC we are committed to promoting equity in whitewater raft racing. 

We believe that our sport should be accessible and welcoming to all individuals, regardless of gender, race, religion or ability. 

We value diversity and strive to create an environment where everyone can participate, compete, and thrive. 

This commitment includes actively working to dismantle barriers, challenge stereotypes, and ensure equal opportunities for all participants. 

Through education, advocacy, and community engagement, we aim to foster a culture that celebrates diverse voices and experiences in whitewater rafting. 

We recognize that equity is not merely an aspiration but a necessity for the growth and enrichment of raft racing. 

USARC and our affiliates work towards a future where every athlete, regardless of background feels empowered and valued on the river.

We are committed to safeguarding the health and vitality of the watersheds where we operate. Our dedication drives us to adopt and promote sustainable practices that not only minimize our ecological footprint, but also enhance the resilience of local ecosystems and waterways. 

We recognize that healthy watersheds are vital for biodiversity, water quality, and the well-being of surrounding communities.

We actively engage in initiatives that restore and protect natural habitats, implement innovative strategies for efficient water use, and collaborate with local stakeholders to foster awareness and education around responsible environmental practices. By embracing a culture of sustainability, we strive to balance our operational needs with the imperative to preserve the natural environment, ensuring that future generations inherit a thriving planet.

Through continuous improvement, transparent reporting, and the integration of environmental considerations into our decision-making processes, we are dedicated to being a responsible steward of the land and water, fostering a legacy of environmental integrity and sustainability among our racers. 

USARC prioritizes the safety and well-being of all participants involved in raft racing through our USARC PROTECT program for youth and our USARC SAFE-RACE program for races. 

We are committed to fostering a culture where safety is paramount, ensuring that every event is conducted with the highest standards of safety practices, equipment, and training.

Comprehensive risk assessments, ongoing training programs, and the use of state-of-the-art safety gear, are USARC tailored to meet the unique challenges of raft racing.

A safe environment enhances the overall experience for participants, spectators, and volunteers alike. Our proactive approach includes regular safety drills, advocating for safer rules at the international level, collaboration with safety experts, and continuous evaluation of our practices to adapt to new challenges and technologies. 

We encourage open communication about safety concerns and emphasize the importance of adhering to established safety protocols.

By instilling a collective responsibility for safety among all participants, USARC aims to create a supportive community where everyone feels empowered to contribute to a safe racing environment. 

We strive to ensure that raft racing remains not only an exhilarating sport but also a secure and enjoyable experience for all involved.

We do this in memory of all the boaters who have perished under preventable circumstances.