The nationwide Rainbow Laces campaign gets underway this weekend (17 and 18 November) – and several clubs and referees across Merseyside will be showing their support through wearing them.

Last week, in the build up to the opening weekend of action, The FA announced a brand-new partnership with Stonewall – the leading UK charity campaigning for LGBT rights, which will see a grassroots fixture placed on 30 November at Wembley Stadium. 

Once again, The FA will be supporting Stonewall’s Rainbow Laces campaign.

On Merseyside, we received registrations from 12 affiliated clubs that have received pairs of the rainbow laces, resulting in 230 players wearing them over the three action weekends during the 2018/19 season.

This will form part of the biggest-ever display of support for LGBT+ people within football to campaign for inclusion in the beautiful game for everyone; whether they’re a fan, player, manager, coach or referee.

Wearing rainbow laces can make a big difference. By asking people to come together over the campaign periods, the conversation regarding LGBT+ inclusion is amplified.

Beyond this weekend, the two other campaign weekends will take place on 24 and 25 November and 1 and 2 December.

Dave Pugh, Chief Executive Officer at Liverpool FA, said: “It’s fantastic to see so many clubs and referees across Merseyside showing their support for LGBT rights, especially given the short timeframe to register interest for supporting the campaign.

“Liverpool FA is committed in providing football for all and is fully supportive of our local LGBT community.”

All clubs that have registered to be part of the campaign are encouraged to tag/mention Liverpool FA on any social media posts, so that we can share.

Have a great weekend – and thank you for supporting such an important campaign.