Rainbow Laces

How Man Utd are creating a club for all

11 Dec 2020

Find out the work being carried out to promote equality and inclusion throughout Man Utd

As a long-term supporter of Stonewall's Rainbow Laces campaign, Manchester United use their worldwide appeal to spread the message that football is accessible to all.

That message of equality is not just one for the fans. Within United, it drives the club's Pride Network, one of a wider programme of initiatives promoting diversity and inclusion.

"It's essentially making sure the message of being LGBT+ inclusive is permeating all throughout the club," says Phil Salt, head of digital product development at Man Utd.

"This is a really strong message and it makes me immensely proud to be a part of that group."

Tackling discrimination

These networks highlight the crucial role allies play in tackling discrimination.

"Once upon a time it was a case of the only people who could belong to diversity and inclusion groups were the people who were affected or directly impacted," Phil says.

"But what we've seen recently is that having allies is absolutely essential. That's how things change, that's how real change can happen."

The Pride Network is open to all Man Utd employees, with staff encouraged to show their support.

"Anybody can be a part of it," says Treena Lowe, Man Utd partnership planner. "It's important to show kindness and important to let people know that they can be themselves."

Strategic partnership

As part of this commitment, Man Utd launched their official LGBT+ supporters' group, the Rainbow Devils, in 2019. After entering a strategic partnership with Stonewall last month, one of the aims will be to embed LGBT+ inclusion in the workplace.

"I am really proud of what we have achieved so far," says Rishi Jain, Man Utd equality and inclusion manager. "But our big focus is to have an environment that's inclusive and welcoming to all.

"We want anyone who engages with the club to feel that they can be the best that they can be. And that's an ever-changing demand. That's why we can never stand still."