A UK gay rights group has had a brilliant start to its ‘rainbow laces’ campaign designed to “kick homophobia” out of football. Stonewall has been joined by bookies Paddy Power and the Gay Football Supporters’ Network in an initiative backed by powerhouse clubs Arsenal and Manchester City, with the backing of the football leagues. It says more than 100,000 members of the public have requested rainbow laces, outstripping the stock of 50,000. The lace manufacturers have also run out of rainbow coloured yarn. Premiership Rugby has also backed the campaign, as have numerous celebrities. Stonewall’s Media Manager Richard Lane says the response from clubs, players, fans, celebs and the public has been incredible. “The excitement and enthusiasm that the campaign has generated is really remarkable and it’s inspiring to see a national conversation about homophobia in sport taking place. It’s up to the players now – the ball is in their court. We hope they recognise the thousands of voices calling for the game to change and lace up this weekend.”
Credit: GayNZ.com Daily News staff
First published: Friday, 12th September 2014 - 8:21am