Critical race theory and black feminist insights into “race” and gender equality

This paper applies the concept “blind spots” to describe partial approaches to “race” and gender equality agendas in sport organizations in the UK, drawing on semi-structured, in-depth interviews with Equality and Coach Development Leaders. Using the specific context of sport coaching, our qualitative approach is underpinned by critical race theory and the work of black feminism and intersectionality scholarship. Three key themes are identified: The marginality of “race” in the equalities agenda; Patterns of (in)visibility; and Whitening Equality. We argue that there is an urgent need for “race” conscious intersectional critiques of sport coaching. This is to examine the multiplicity and complexities of inclusion and exclusion for coaches and the different levels at which social divisions are constructed and interconnected. The paper provides a theoretical contribution to develop “race” equality research and outlines implications for policy-makers and practitioners to help challenge notions of meritocracy.