Charter for Action Against Homophobia & Transphobia in Sport

Equalities Minister Lynne Featherstone MP

Today the Government has launched a ‘Charter for Action’ against homophobia & transphobia in sport. They are asking sporting organisations, clubs, leagues and individuals from across the country to come together to support the principals behind it.

Already big names such as The Football Association, the Lawn Tennis Association, the England & Wales Cricket Board, both the Rugby Football League and Union plus the London Organising Committee of the Olympic and Paralympic Games have put their signatures to the charter.

The Equalities Minister Lynne Featherstone said: ‘Sport should be about what you can do, not who you are. But too many lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people feel that the sports field is not somewhere they can be themselves, and that prejudice and discrimination will mean their sexuality is always talked about more than their ability with a ball, bat or racket.

‘Homophobia and transphobia has no place in sport and I’m delighted that so many sporting bodies are backing our campaign to stamp it out at all levels, from local parks to Olympic stadiums. ‘

The charter is simple and sets out four principles that should govern sport, namely

1. We believe that everyone should be able to participate in and enjoy sport – whoever they are and whatever their background.
2. 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.
3. 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.
4. We will make sport a welcome place for everyone – for those participating in sport, those attending sporting events and for those working or volunteering in sports at any level. We will work with all these groups to ensure they have a voice, and to challenge unacceptable behaviour.

You can sign up to show your support for the charter by visiting its Facebook Page and clicking Like.