Club Reaffirms Commitment to LGBTQ+ Inclusion Amid Rainbow Laces Campaign
Ipswich Town has issued a statement addressing captain Sam Morsy’s decision not to wear a Rainbow armband during Saturday’s Premier League match against Nottingham Forest. The match coincided with the league’s annual celebration of Stonewall’s Rainbow Laces campaign, which promotes LGBTQ+ inclusion in football.
From November 29 to December 5, Premier League clubs are showcasing their commitment to equality and diversity through various initiatives, including captains wearing Rainbow armbands. However, Morsy, a practising Muslim, opted out due to his religious beliefs, becoming the only captain among the league’s 20 clubs not to wear the armband during the weekend fixtures.
In their statement, Ipswich Town emphasized their dedication to inclusivity while expressing respect for Morsy’s personal decision. “Ipswich Town Football Club is committed to being a fully inclusive club that welcomes everyone,” a club spokesperson said. “We proudly support the Premier League’s Rainbow Laces campaign and stand with the LGBTQ+ community in promoting equality and acceptance.”
The club highlighted their involvement in the campaign, including player visits to LGBTQ+ football sessions and solidarity initiatives alongside Nottingham Forest during Saturday’s game. Further activities are planned for Tuesday’s home match against Crystal Palace, such as a stadium-wide celebration of inclusivity before kickoff.
“At the same time, we respect the decision of our captain Sam Morsy, who has chosen not to wear the rainbow captain’s armband due to his religious beliefs,” the statement continued. “We will continue to grow an environment where all are valued and respected, both on and off the pitch.”
The Premier League has partnered with Stonewall since 2017 to foster LGBTQ+ inclusivity in sport. Chief executive Richard Masters reaffirmed the league’s commitment, stating, “We all have a role to play in promoting inclusion and demonstrating there is no place for discrimination of any kind in football.”
Morsy’s decision has sparked discussions about the intersection of personal beliefs and public displays of solidarity. Ipswich Town’s response underscores their efforts to balance respect for individual choices with their broader mission of inclusivity.
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