Phyllis Quinn, Chair Pacific Masters

As the largest LMSC in U.S. Masters Swimming, Pacific Masters may also be the most diverse. Yet, we are one of only six LMSCs that has a Diversity & Inclusion Committee. Why, of all the LMSCs across the country, did we think Diversity & Inclusion was important enough to create a subcommittee?

Pacific Masters is constantly working to improve our operations, including understanding how other organizations are embracing Diversity & Inclusion. As Diversity & Inclusion has increasingly become a focal point for any organization, Pacific Masters has made it a part of our own structure. It’s even become integral to our mission statement — Pacific Masters envisions a diverse swimming community embracing inclusivity and an environment in which individuals of all backgrounds feel welcome and safe in U.S. Masters Swimming activities.

Donita Flecker, coach of Sebastopol Masters Aquatic Club, used her interest in Diversity & Inclusion to gain insight into what USMS and other LMSC’c are doing in this area, and help make us aware of the importance of having a D&I committee to help Pacific Masters embrace the diverse communities among our members.

My own personal journey, which I am sure mirrors some of your own experiences, reflects how my life’s paths impacted my understanding of this important subject. I grew up in Ohio and Virginia. I moved from Richmond, Virginia (the capital of the South) to Honolulu, Hawaii. This was an insightful period for me as I was suddenly experiencing being a minority. When I moved to San Francisco I swam at Garfield pool for a few years and then at USF. When the Olympic Club opened its membership to women, I was asked to join. Through all of these experiences I was mostly welcomed, but each club meant adjusting to a different group of swimmers – and they no doubt had to adjust to me. I’ve had the opportunity to meet a great diversity of swimmers and learned much about each of these various communities. My exposure to, and relationships with, a diversity of swimmers has made me a better teammate, Pacific LMSC Chair, and person.

That’s what I want for all members of Pacific Masters – a rich experience that goes beyond the workouts and the swim meets. The Diversity & Inclusion Committee, in concert with our other committees, will work to realize Pacific Masters’ vision.

Interested in learning more about Pacific Masters’ Diversity & Inclusion Committee? Contact Vicki Shu at [email protected]."