University sports clubs donned rainbow laces on Wednesday (17 February) to raise money and awareness for Stonewall’s campaign for LGBT-inclusive sport.
This is the third year that students at Sussex have supported the national campaign, created by LGBT charity Stonewall, which aims to change attitudes around sport.
A National Union of Students (NUS) Out in Sport report revealed that almost half of LGBT students at college and university who do not participate in any sport find the culture to be alienating. And fear of discrimination and abuse can stop those who do play sport from feeling like they can be themselves.
As part of a continuing commitment to inclusive sport at Sussex, the Students’ Union Rainbow Laces Day aimed to promote awareness of the campaign and raise funds for Stonewall. Student sports clubs purchased rainbow laces from the charity and wore them during their matches against other universities. Sarah Hall, Sports Development Manager at the Students’ Union, said: “The sports community at Sussex have worked hard to promote the campaign and demonstrate that sport at Sussex is for everyone.”
The women’s rugby team wore their rainbow laces with pride as they soared to victory over Essex, with a 134-0 win at home on the day. Hannah Blitzer, the club’s Communication Officer said:
"Sussex women's rugby proudly participated in the Rainbow Laces Campaign because eradicating homophobia, biphobia and transphobia and promoting equality and inclusion in sport is of the utmost importance.
“We take pride in being actively involved with Stonewall's efforts to create a welcoming space for LGBT athletes and to increase acceptance of all individuals who love sport."
Find out more about the campaign and buy laces via Stonewall’s webpages.
Members of the women's rugby team celebrate Rainbow Laces Day