Sports is everyone game, no matter who you are. Football to rugby even Basketball is all making a change. But how can you make a difference?
Check out below to find out more to be inclusive and create a place for everyone to be themselves.
Tackle Homophobic, Biphobic and Transphobic abuse both online and on the pitch.
Report the abuse - many of us know it is wrong and many recognise it but, less of us report it. There are many ways of reporting the abuse; online, in person and by phone. A key thing to remember is to report it as soon as you can after the incident.
Take a screenshot of any abuse that you see online and report it. Homophobic, biphobic and transphobic attacks on social media can be very dangerous as they can happen at any time of the day.
If you are confident in challenging someone, positively approach them and avoid being aggressive. Telling them that anti-LGBT language can be hurtful; sends a message to fans and players but, makes them less likely to repeat their actions.
Overall know who to contact:
Download certain apps such as Kick it Out or check out the Football v Homophobia website.
Speak to a steward at a match.
Playing at a University level, speak to your sports coordinator or student union.
Be an Inclusive Player
Avoid assuming someone's gender identity and avoid using language that assumes.
Respect people's differences and support everyone. Talk about wellbeing and value team spirit to everyone, make people welcome.
Celebrate even the small actions and talk to LGBT people about how they want to be championed.
Be a Fan who Makes a Change and Respect Others
Make your support visible and clear.
Write to your club or governing body that you value inclusivity and diversity. And ask them what steps they are taking to promote inclusivity and offer further steps.
Learn how to report abuse and reach out to the club’s LGBT support groups.
Be an inclusive Club/Team
Increase the visibility by celebrating and supporting LGBT causes, make statements clear and invite LGBTQ athletes and coaches to speak to the team or club.
Have policies that prohibit discrimination and enforce your organisation's values and references to your code of conduct so that everyone knows what's acceptable and unacceptable.
Make your facilities more inclusive such as gender-neutral changing rooms and provide private areas that are available for everyone.
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