All 20 football clubs in the English Premier League, one of the most high profile sports competitions in the world, have signed a Charter that tackles homophobia and transphobia in sport. "The Premier League and our member clubs believe that everyone should be able to participate in, watch and enjoy sport - whoever they are and whatever their background," Chief Executive Richard Scudamore said as each of the teams put their pledges in ink. "When the Sports Charter to tackle homophobia and transphobia in sport was launched in June 2011 the Premier League signed it and we are pleased to re-affirm our commitment to it today with each of our clubs signing it individually." The UK's Equalities Minister Lynne Featherstone added that nearly 3,000 individuals and clubs have already signed up and she's delighted that Premier League clubs have taken a stand by signing the Charter too. "It sends a really strong signal when clubs in the best league in the world say enough is enough." The Charter is made up of four bullet points, which read: •We believe that everyone should be able to participate in, watch and enjoy sport - whoever they are and whatever their background. •We believe that sport is about fairness and equality, respect and dignity. Sport teaches individuals how to strive and succeed, how to cope with success and disappointment, and brings people together with a common goal. •We are committed to making these values a reality for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people. We will work together, and individually, to rid sport of homophobia and transphobia. •We will make football a welcome place for everyone - for those participating in the sport, those attending matches and for those working or volunteering in it. We will work with all these groups to ensure they have a voice, and to challenge unacceptable behaviour.
Credit: GayNZ.com Daily News staff
First published: Friday, 3rd February 2012 - 8:59pm