From 25th – 28th August 2022 the cricket community in England and Wales will be uniting in support of Stonewall’s Rainbow Laces campaign, to raise awareness around LGBTQ+ inclusion and help make cricket a more welcoming place for everyone.
Spearheaded by elite matches taking place over the weekend (England Men’s second Test vs South Africa; The Hundred; Royal London Cup), the ECB has also created a toolkit for recreational clubs and leagues, to ensure everyone in cricket can participate.
Evidence shows that many LGBTQ+ people do not feel comfortable being themselves at sporting events; whether playing, spectating, or working in some capacity. This season, the ECB has been working closely with Proud Surrey, the LGBTQ+ supporters’ group for Surrey County Cricket Club to help set up a national supporters’ network for the game called Pride In Cricket. Its ambition is to provide a safe space online and at games for the LGBTQ+ community and allies. Please register your interest to hear more online.
As part of GRACE, the Foundation’s commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion (EDI), we are encouraging Gloucestershire clubs and leagues to use the ECB’s Rainbow Laces toolkit and spread the message that Gloucestershire Cricket is for All. There are lots of great ways for everyone in cricket to get involved, including:
- Social media templates and ready to use digital assets, available on the ECB Resource Hub
- Activation bundles, including flags, bunting, bucket hats and laces – free for recreational clubs (limited numbers)
- Suggestions on how to host your own Rainbow Laces match / celebration
To request an activation bundle, or for any other questions about the campaign, please contact raisingthegame@ecb.co.uk.