To celebrate Pride month, we're highlighting the individuals, communities and initiatives that champion the LGBTQ+ community within our game.
Earlier in June, Lia Walti paid a visit to Clubs United, an LGBTQ+ inclusive, grassroots football league, created to provide a safe space for all cis, trans and gender non-conforming identities.
Lia met Hannah, Rowan, Betty and Sarah for a conversation on football and identity, the ongoing meaning of Pride, and how Clubs United has allowed them to be themselves whilst playing the game they love.
“When doors are open at the very base, it just opens those doors across the whole spectrum," said Hannah, the league's founder. "I do hope that by talking about these spaces and these teams, a lot more people now come forward and know that this sport is for them.”
"It's really important that everyone feels included, everybody feels a part of us, of something, of Arsenal," said Lia. "But also, for me in general, in life, I think it's important to make people feel welcome no matter who they are, who they love, or where they're from."
To watch the film and hear more from Lia and the grassroots players, click the play button above.
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