Rainbow Laces

Justin: It's important to learn about LGBT issues

17 Dec 2020

Leicester defender speaks to members of the Foxes Pride fan group as part of Rainbow Laces campaign

A key part of becoming an ally of the LGBT+ community is learning about the day-to-day issues they face.

And to highlight Leicester City's support for the Rainbow Laces campaign, defender James Justin joined a video call with Foxes Pride to learn more about the club's LGBT+ supporter group.

"It was great to meet and talk to some of the group's members and to have an open and honest conversation with them about what it is like for them to be LGBT football supporters," he told the club's website after the Q&A session alongside Leicester Women's footballer Sophie Howard.

"Being able to learn about the issues they've faced and the progress that has also been made over the past few years was insightful.

"Having discussions around the subject helps to raise awareness. Rainbow Laces is, of course, a massive campaign but it's important we recognise this is something to support all-year round, not just for two weeks of the year."

A message from Madders for the Blue Army and @FoxesPride 😀 pic.twitter.com/i3hBfNcXDO
— Leicester City (@LCFC) December 13, 2020

Foxes Pride now have more than 200 members and work throughout the year with Leicester to tackle homophobia, biphobia and transphobia in football.

They also promote the welfare of the club's LGBT+ supporters by ensuring King Power Stadium is a welcoming and friendly environment for all.

And to have the backing of both Justin and Howard was a significant moment for Foxes Pride member Rishi Madlani.

"It was a really positive and constructive conversation covering a range of topics, including social media abuse and the potential power of their allyship in supporting the LGBT community," Madlani said.