AFC Bournemouth have offered their full support to Proud Cherries, the club’s new official LGBT supporter group.
Since the end of last season, AFC Bournemouth have been in conversation with founding member Louise Clarke on ways to continue to support the LGBT community.
The result is Proud Cherries, a group for lesbian, gay, bisexual and trans supporters of AFC Bournemouth, but one that will also work with the club to make Vitality Stadium a safer and more inclusive place for everyone.
The 2016/17 campaign saw the Cherries make first appearances at Bournemouth’s pride festival and Bournemouth University’s student pride.
The club also supported campaigns for LGBT equality within football, including Rainbow Laces and Football v Homophobia.
Another highlight was the unique partnership with nominated club charity, Space Youth Project, who support people who are or may be LGBT in Dorset.
“AFC Bournemouth are committed to challenging discrimination and promoting inclusivity so that everyone can enjoy supporting the club,” said general manager Liz Finney.
“We want to make Vitality Stadium and football in general an inclusive space where everyone feels comfortable to be themselves. It’s great to have Proud Cherries’ support in making this goal possible.”
Proud Cherries founding member Louise Clarke added: “I’m really excited that, alongside the club, we have set up an LGBT supporter group.
“It is valuable to support the LGBT community within the sporting sector and promote equality and diversity.
“Look out for announcements on upcoming events where you can have your say in what you would like the group to do for you.”
To recognise the Proud Cherries, the club will host the inaugural meeting at Vitality Stadium on Thursday, 21st September, at 6.30pm.
The event will be open to all supporters upon registration, with Sophie Cook already confirmed as a guest speaker and pre-event stadium tours available.
To register for the event or for more information on how you can get involved with the group, please email proudcherries@gmail.com.
You can also follow Proud Cherries on Facebook (facebook.com/Proud-Cherries) and Twitter (twitter.com/ProudCherries).
