The Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu community is a welcoming and inclusive one. Prejudice and discrimination are not welcome and will never be tolerated. The events of the last few weeks have shocked and touched us all and the UKBJJA has used this time to reflect, listen and learn. Although we will continue to reflect, listen and learn, we believe now is the time to pledge our support and to act.

The UKBJJA is unequivocal in its opposition of all forms of prejudice, racial or otherwise; however, words are not enough. As such, we will be taking proactive steps to ensure that not only is prejudice not tolerated within the UK BJJ community, but that there is a support network available for anyone who may need it. Therefore, with immediate effect, we will make a confidential email hotline available for any member who is the victim of, or a witness to, any form of discrimination within their club. To report an issue please email (in confidence) report@ukbjja.org.

Over the coming weeks and months, we will work with our membership with the aim of implementing new more inclusive structures to ensure the representation of black and diverse groups amongst our management and committee structure and the creation of an inclusive voice and environment for our membership. As an organisation, we are committed to working harder to ensure that our membership is representative of society as a whole, and that all members are welcomed regardless of race, colour, religion, gender or sexual orientation.

We are determined to work towards building an inclusive and open community for the benefit of our members and the sport as a whole.

If you wish to discuss these issues, please contact us at info@ukbjja.org

Mike Williams
CEO – United Kingdom Brazilian Jiu JItsu Association