What has contributed to progress in achieving gender equity in sports?

Adding new sports to athletic programs has indeed played a role in the progress towards gender equity in sports, but the primary factors contributing to this progress often center around the participation and representation of female athletes.

When new sports are introduced, they can provide additional opportunities for females to engage in athletic activities, which can promote increased interest and participation. However, the emphasis on already existing programs, available funding, as well as legal frameworks to challenge discrimination have had a more impactful and broader effect on achieving gender equity.

Higher participation rates among female athletes signal a cultural shift that not only encourages more women and girls to engage in sports but also highlights the demand for equitable resources, support, and recognition in athletics. Additionally, legal challenges to discrimination have historically helped to dismantle institutional barriers and ensure that women receive equal treatment and opportunities in sports, fundamentally reshaping the landscape of athletics for gender equity.

Thus, while adding new sports can be beneficial, the other options reflect broader structural changes that have more significantly advanced the cause of gender equity in the world of sports.