From today's Sheffield United News, originally posted here: https://www.sufc.co.uk/news/2020/june/rainbow-blades/
With June being Pride month, sufc.co.uk would like to introduce... Rainbow Blades - the official and affiliated LGBT+ and Allies supporters' group for Sheffield United Football Club.
Founder and chair of Rainbow Blades supporters' club, James Laley, comments: "Sheffield United and I spoke about a shared desire for an LGBT+ and Allies supporters' group and I am delighted to say that the idea has really taken off. We have made excellent progress so far.
"We decided on the name Rainbow Blades, we have created an online presence with social media and a website, we have an online membership sign up form, become an associated member of the Football Supporters' Association and have worked collaboratively with other LGBT+ and Allies football supporters' groups around the country.
"We also would like to highlight that this is not just a supporters' group for LGBT+ people. It is also for allies, someone who supports another person's differences, different to their own and stands up against discrimination. We always say that LGBT+ people should not work alone; we should all work together to achieve one common goal. The group is open to all Sheffield United supporters."
United's chief executive officer, Stephen Bettis, has welcomed the newly-formed group into the S2 'football family'. He comments: "It is great to see the new Rainbow Blades supporters' group taking shape, with the help of our staff at Bramall Lane. Our aim is to be fully inclusive and ensure football is a game for everyone."
Signing up as a member of Rainbow Blades, you are saying you stand for Equality, Diversity and Inclusion at Sheffield United Football Club. You can sign up purely to show support and be kept updated with what is happening or you can play a more active role in the group.
Rainbow Blades aims to be a friendly, welcoming, and inclusive Sheffield United supporters' group. They want to help make Bramall Lane and football in general inclusive spaces where everyone feels safe to be themselves. What is in it for the supporters:
A group for likeminded fans to meet up prior to a match and socialise if they wish.
A safe and welcoming space for LGBT+ fans.
A forum for LGBT+ fans voices to be heard and influence change.
Attract new fans to the club, speak proud and highly of the club. Be part of a step change for the club.
A group to be consulted with on club and stadium changes, improvements, and direction of travel.
Re-engage fans who may feel a lost connection with the club.
To be involved in campaigns with the group and club.
For more information, see the links below:
Facebook: facebook.com/BladesRainbow
Twitter: @rainbow_blades
Email: rainbowblades@outlook.com
Membership sign up: tiny.cc/rainbowbladesmember
Comments