Wheels Spinning at Kawehno:ke Skatepark for Girls SK8 Day

By Isaac White.

The thrum of skateboard wheels and bursts of laughter echoed through the air on Saturday, transforming the Akwesasne skatepark into a bustling hub of activity and celebration. This wasn't just any ordinary day at the park; it was Girls SK8 Day, a pivotal event designed to shift the typical skatepark demographic dramatically. Typically, the park is mostly filled with boys. However, the skatepark witnessed a remarkable transformation on Saturday, with girls making up 90% of the skateboarders gliding across its features. This extraordinary turnout was a statement in the ongoing campaign for gender equality in skateboarding, showcasing the potential of the sport as a platform for empowerment and inclusivity.

The event served not only as a gathering for local enthusiasts but also attracted participants from various regions, further enriching the diversity and vibrancy of the day. With music pulsating in the background and a variety of offerings around the venue, the skatepark was reimagined as a canvas of expression and camaraderie. Girls SK8 Day was not an anomaly-it was a joyful celebration aimed at empowering female skateboarders and promoting gender equality within the sport.

Troy Thompson from the Mohawk Council Economic Development was pivotal in orchestrating this dynamic shift at the skatepark.

"Today is about celebrating girls, art, and music and expanding the skate scene to be as inclusive as possible," Troy explained.

His dedication to fostering a welcoming environment at the skatepark reflects a broader commitment to supporting young girls in embracing skateboarding not just as a sport but as a form of personal expression and empowerment.

Beyond the event's immediate festivities, Troy spoke about the lasting impact of such initiatives. "We're here to make a long-term difference. It's about encouraging these young girls to see the park as their space too, where they can come and skate without hesitation or fear of being outnumbered or overlooked." His efforts are not just about one day of celebration but about instilling confidence and a sense of belonging in the girls who attend. Troy's vision extends to nurturing a culture where girls feel as integral to the skateboarding community as boys, aiming to dismantle the gender barriers that have historically marked the sport.

"Looking ahead, we want to build on the momentum from today's event. Our goal is to host more frequent gatherings like this, maybe even more focused sessions that can provide girls with the skills and confidence to skate alongside anyone," Troy added.

He is optimistic about the potential for growth, not only in terms of participation but in shaping a community that champions equality and inclusivity at its core. Through events like Girls SK8 Day, Troy and his team are laying the groundwork for a future where the skatepark is a beacon of diversity, celebrating the talents and passions of skateboarders, regardless of gender.

Ashley Irish of Girls Plus Skate 613 was present to provide support and an artistic flair for the day. Through her leadership, the event featured a grip tape workshop that encouraged participants to personalize their skateboards. "We're offering a space where anyone can show their creativity by designing their own skateboard grips," Ashley explained. This workshop was not just about art; it was about allowing participants, especially young girls, to express their individuality and build a personal connection with their sport.

The creative aspect of skateboarding can be overshadowed by the physical, but Ashley aims to change that perception. "Skateboarding is as much about personal expression as it is about sportsmanship. Through these artistic workshops, we're helping girls to see that they can mold this sport into whatever they want it to be," she said. Her initiatives help to foster a more inclusive environment where girls can feel more at home in the skateboarding community, which is traditionally male-dominated.

Ashley also discussed the broader impact of integrating creativity with skateboarding: "When these girls create something that is visually representative of who they are, it gives them a stronger sense of belonging and pride in what they do. It's about more than just skateboarding; it's about building a supportive community where everyone feels they can contribute something unique."

Her vision for future events includes expanding these creative workshops to include more diverse artistic activities, further enriching the community's engagement with the sport.

Local artist Christine Sabray contributed her unique artistic talents by incorporating skateboarding into her art.

"I've been working with upcycled skateboard materials to create everything from jewelry to home decor," Sabray shared.

Her work not only highlights the artistic potential of skateboarding materials but also promotes environmental consciousness through upcycling.

The rise in female participation in skateboarding is backed by compelling statistics. A GOSKATE study recently found that 40% of new skateboarders are women. Additionally, during the early months of the COVID-19 pandemic, there was a 118% increase in demand for skateboarding products, with women accounting for a significant portion of new enthusiasts. This surge is indicative of a broader trend towards greater inclusivity in traditionally male-dominated sports.

The inclusion of skateboarding in the Olympics has had a profound impact on the sport's perception worldwide. It offered a platform for women skateboarders to gain international recognition, undoubtedly inspiring countless young girls.

Events like Girls SK8 Day not only celebrate current achievements but also pave the way for future generations of female skateboarders. The commitment of the local community to hold these events annually promises continued support for women in the sport.

Girls SK8 Day at the Akwesasne skatepark was a demonstration of community and enthusiasm. This special day highlighted the joy and unity brought about by encouraging and supporting young female skateboarders. With the community's strong support and the evident happiness of all participants, the future of skateboarding in Akwesasne looks incredibly bright. Each year, as this event continues to grow, it promises to bring more smiles, more empowerment, and more opportunities for girls to shine in the sport they love.