AFC Bournemouth were proud to support the Rainbow Laces campaign over the weekend, with a dedicated matchday against Tottenham Hotspur at Vitality Stadium.
Joining forces with all 19 other Premier League clubs, the Cherries showed their ongoing support for LGBTQ+ inclusion in a number of different ways.
The Premier League encouraged fans to play their part by holding conversations about what we can all do to support LGBTQ+ people and help create environments where everyone feels welcome.
As a result of the campaign, rainbow-themed armbands were worn by captains Adam Smith and Harry Kane, while ball plinths, handshake boards and LED perimeter boards also highlighted important messages.
Additionally, the club ensured that all flagbearers were taken from supporter group, Proud Cherries, with the Fans’ Champions also specifically selected in line with the theme of the weekend.
As a result, the match ball was brought onto the pitch by Louise Clarke, founder of Proud Cherries, and her counterpart from Spurs Chris Paoros, Co-founder of Proud Lilywhites, showing unity between our clubs and the LGBTQ+ communities. The duo have worked tirelessly to ensure that football continues to be a safe, equal and diverse place where supporters feel welcome.
AFC Bournemouth was also pleased to relaunch the We Are Allies campaign, which raises awareness for LGBTQ+ support within the club. Stewards, players, supporters and staff were all pictured with the We Are Allies boards around the stadium ahead of kick-off.
It capped off a superb week of activities surrounding the Rainbow Laces campaign, which kicked off with first team defender Jack Stacey dropping in on an LGBTQ+ workshop at Vitality Stadium, which helped spread awareness to over 50 school children.
Following a successful week supporting the Rainbow Laces campaign, Louise shared her delight with afcb.co.uk.
“It was fantastic to celebrate Rainbow Laces alongside the club and promote the importance of inclusion within football. It is an amazing opportunity to promote that message to the wider community and help get everyone enjoying football together, no matter what their background is.
“I am so proud to be part of a club that truly cares about its community and making everyone feel welcome. We still have a lot of barriers to break down, but with the help of the club, we are making a huge difference and making AFC Bournemouth, and football in general, a safe place for everyone.”
