England Rugby and Premiership Rugby Join Forces With Stonewall To Promote LGBT Inclusion

England Rugby and Premiership Rugby have announced a commitment to Stonewall, which will see the three organisations support and promote LGBT inclusion in rugby. The two organisations will work with Stonewall to assess current inclusion programmes and practices and to work on integrating best practice into rugby at all levels.As part of their commitment, England Rugby, Premiership Rugby and the Rugby Players’ Association (RPA) continue to support the Rainbow Laces campaign, scheduled for November 2017.

England Rugby will be promoting Stonewall’s Rainbow Laces campaign in Twickenham Stadium during England’s match against Samoa on Saturday 25th November, with rainbow LEDs and big screen VTs promoting their support. Clubs and players across the community will also be informed of ways to promote inclusion and how to get behind the Rainbow Laces campaign.

Steve Grainger, RFU Rugby Development Director said, “Rugby is a game for all and at the core of our strategic plan is our commitment to ensuring that rugby provides an inclusive and welcoming environment for all across every level of the game.

“We are delighted to join forces with Stonewall, Premiership Rugby and the RPA on Rainbow Laces and to raise awareness for the inclusive nature of the sport and ensure the LGBT community feel supported whether they are players, coaches, referees, volunteers or spectators.” 

Stonewall will become Premiership Rugby’s latest inclusion partner, following the league’s work with the Equality and Human Rights Commission, Level Playing Field and Sporting Equals.

Ruth Hunt, CEO of Stonewall, said, “It’s crucial for organisations like Premiership Rugby and England Rugby to show leadership and become active members of the Rainbow Laces movement. Many LGBT people want to take part in sport, as either players or fans, and to do this, they need really clear signals that they are welcome.