Leeds United are proud to support Football v Homophobia's Month of Action, to show continued support for LGBTQ+ History Month.
Football v Homophobia (FvH) is a campaign running year-round and through February, uniting football in opposing homophobia and prejudice against lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people in football.
Year round, FvH enables people to take action against prejudice and discrimination based on sexuality or gender identity in football, and to celebrate and welcome diversity in the game. This culminates in an international show of support in February to raise awareness of the issue and to join together in making a visible stand against prejudice and for
Results of a 2024 survey (Out and Out Football) showed 74% of respondents - all LGBTQ+ - said they had experienced or heard anti-LGBTQ+ abuse when watching football. Less than a quarter of those people said they had reported the incidents, suggesting a lack of confidence or awareness of available reporting channels. But this type of discrimination doesn’t just impact LGBTQ+ people.
Using homophobic or transphobic language, or putting someone down because of their gender just because you don’t like the way they play football, manage a team, make a refereeing decision or because of whom they support is wrong. It’s against the Laws of the Game and can be a criminal offence, but most importantly, it can make football an intimidating and unpleasant place for fellow fans, players, and match officials.
An increase in homophobic language and abuse on social media, in the stands and at grassroots in recent years means that we all need to make sure that we stand up to homophobia in the game. Fans can make a real difference to the culture of football, and we’d like your support.
Throughout Football v Homophobia month and beyond, please help Leeds United by standing up to prejudice and discrimination against LGBTQ+ people in the game. Together we can make football a welcoming place for everyone.
If you witness any behaviour during a game, like anti-gay chanting and hateful or prejudiced language, speak to a nearby steward or text LEEDS to 60006 with details of the incident.
Remember, doing nothing only allows discrimination to get worse! Find out more about the Football v Homophobia campaign and how you can get involved by clicking here.
