The 2049 International Swimming and Diving Training Centre in Jiangsu, China, is facing significant backlash for its controversial membership policies that only admit women under the age of 45 who hold a bachelor's degree. The club, which opened in 2017, claims that these restrictions are in place to ensure the safety of its members. Membership fees are set at 576 yuan (approximately US$80) [52f49e1b].
The club promotes itself as a space for 'knowledgeable ladies,' but its policies have sparked widespread criticism online. Many argue that educational qualifications do not necessarily correlate with moral character, raising questions about the club's criteria for membership. A lawyer has pointed out that these rules may violate consumer rights laws, prompting local authorities to intervene and request the removal of the discriminatory policies [52f49e1b].
In light of the backlash, the club has been advised to adjust its activities to prevent further misunderstandings and to foster a more inclusive environment. The situation highlights ongoing issues of gender and diversity within sports and recreational activities in China, as well as the broader implications of educational elitism in social settings [52f49e1b].