CHICAGO (April 6, 2021) – Today, the National Independent Soccer Association (NISA) formalized its equity, diversity and inclusion operations as transparent and measurable evidence of its stance as an unapologetically anti-racist and equitable organization. While some components have been in practice all along, a critical element is the formation and activation of the Equity Committee. Fourteen men and women from across NISA’s players, owners and staff will meet for the first time Monday, April 12, during the Legends Cup tournament in Chattanooga.

“NISA’s Equity Committee is designed to bring equal vocal and visual representation to people of color and women in our soccer ecosystem,” says NISA Commissioner John Prutch. "Along with NISA’s rapid growth as a league, we are refining how we operate. That includes a visible commitment as an anti-racist organization to equity, diversity and inclusion.”

NISA intends to use the work of the committee to create a more equitable and welcoming atmosphere across NISA operations and events. Members of the Equity Committee include:

• CJ Brown, Head Coach/Tech Director, Chicago House AC
• Dr. Katherine Burakowski, Dir. of Communications and PR, Flower City Union
• Richard Dixon, Player, Chattanooga FC
• Adrian Garibay, Managing Director, Team/Event Chicago House AC
• Brandon Gomez, Player, Los Angeles Force
• Dr. Amber Howard, Senior Brand Manager/Designer, NISA
• Tendai Jirira, Player, Detroit City FC
• Steve Johnson, Communications Specialist, NISA
• Shinya Kadono, Player, Cal United Strikers FC
• Chris Klute, Player, Cal United Strikers FC
• Jide Saba, Owner, Maryland Bobcats FC
• Carrie Taylor, COO, Stumptown AC
• Rod Underwood, Head Coach, Stumptown AC
• Abraham Villon, Player, Los Angeles Force

The first agenda will focus on introductions and committee objectives, including initial tactics, reviewing definitions, and reviewing the EDI statement introduced at the 2020 Fall Championship Tournament in Detroit. Insights from the Committee will be used to:

• Identify new or emerging EDI-related initiatives
• Ensure ongoing effective communication between the league and the many communities in which NISA operates
• Provide insight on inclusive storytelling for use in owned and earned channels
• Provide oversight to racial equity tools offered to the entire NISA pyramid
• Offer input on NISA partnership diversity

“When we announced our intention at our 2020 Fall Championship, we also asked everyone – players, staff, supporters – to hold us accountable,” Prutch said.  “It is one thing to state intentions, but it is another to put that into measurable actions. This committee will help us continue to move forward."