🖤 Diversity in Cheer (S3.21)
- janie724
- Feb 5
- 2 min read
Episode of February 3, 2026
As Black History Month kicks off, the Kick's Cheer Podcast opens a crucial discussion: diversity in cheerleading. In this episode, Janie welcomes Réré, a dedicated coach and well-known figure in the community, for a candid and unfiltered conversation about inclusion, cultural realities, and the evolution of cheerleading in Quebec. A necessary, human, and truly essential exchange.
🤎 Diversity in cheerleading: a lived reality, not a slogan
It is often said that cheerleading is an inclusive sport . But is this really the case when we look at the realities on the ground?
In this episode, Réré shares his experiences unfiltered:
Arriving in a sport where she was often the only Black woman on the team
The issues related to hair, makeup, and uniforms
The cultural clash between cheerleading and certain communities where this sport is still unknown or misunderstood
Inappropriate comments, ignorance disguised as jokes, and questions that are asked too often without thinking
👉 This is not an accusation. It is an observation.
💄 Makeup, hairstyle, uniformity: when “being the same” excludes
One of the highlights of the episode touches on a subject rarely addressed so clearly: the imposed uniformity in cheerleading.
Réré explains how, for years, the standards (straightened hair, single makeup, unsuitable colors) forced some athletes to transform themselves to “fit the mold” .
Good news: things are changing.
Two makeup versions
Adaptation according to hair type
More inclusive uniforms
More conscious and better-trained coaches
Diversity in cheerleading is progressing, but it didn't happen by itself.
🤍 The crucial role of coaches and role models
Réré reiterates: a coach isn't just a coach. He is also:
A reassuring figure
An educator
A reference
Sometimes even a surrogate parent or even a psychologist
His approach is based on:
Communication
Listening
Love (yes, she says it clearly)
Respect for individual realities
This is exactly what creates environments where diversity in cheer can actually exist, and not just be displayed.
🕊️ Ignorance vs. racism: using the right words
A key moment in the episode addresses a crucial nuance: 👉 Not everything is racism. But ignorance can be just as damaging.
Touching her hair without asking. Saying "for a Black woman, you speak well." Imitating an accent. Insisting on "where are you really from?"
Réré explains how she chooses to educate rather than harden herself, without minimizing the impact of these words.
A powerful, necessary, and frankly enlightening moment.
🖤 A true, emotional and essential episode
We laugh. We learn. We get a lump in our throat at certain moments.
This episode of the Kick's Cheer Podcast isn't just for show. It's here to move the conversation forward, challenge certain habits, and remind us of one simple thing:
👉 Cheerleading is a sport for everyone.
And diversity in cheerleading is not a fad. It's a collective responsibility.
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