A MESSAGE FROM THE WESA COMMISSION REGARDING THE 2025 GSWS
28 April 2025
Since 2008, WESA has proudly participated in the Gay Softball World Series (GSWS). By participating in iPride, we show our support and solidarity for LGBT+ communities across Canada and the US, standing shoulder to shoulder with our brothers and sisters who are fighting for vibrant, inclusive communities.
That said, there are several issues that the Commission considered in deciding on whether to proceed as usual with the GSWS call for coaches this year and later in the season, the call for player interest.
First, the issue of sending teams to GSWS given the current political climate is a nuanced one. On the one hand, an appropriate response may seem to be to boycott travel and withdraw participation to show our displeasure with what's happening in the US right now. On the other hand, our LGBT+ brothers and sisters in Houston point out that for those same reasons, now more than ever is the time to stand up, be visible, and show our strength and support.
Second, both positions - and the myriad variations between - are valid points of view and with 300 members (296 to be exact) WESA is not going to be able to represent them all. It's for this reason that our forebears put a bylaw in place prohibiting WESA from making political associations. So, as an organization, we don't express support for groups other than our membership and the local community charities we fundraise for. We don't participate in boycotts, demonstrations, petitions, etc. or engage in or support partisan activities to influence voting behaviour or politics at any level.
Third, it's also important to remember that no WESA funds directly finance sending players or teams to GSWS. This has been a long-standing Commission policy. Players fundraise or self-fund everything from their flights and accommodation to the tournament registration and insurance fees. Teams are only sent if players and coaches want to go.
WESA absolutely does encourage members to act in whatever way they feel makes the most impact. When we send out a call for GSWS coaches, or expression of player interest, the Commission is ensuring our members have not only the access to opportunity and ability to participate but also have the freedom of choice to withhold their participation if they wish.
We encourage members to share thoughts, questions, and comments with the WESA Commission by emailing Commission@WESA.net.
WESA 2025 Commission