Showing their support for the LGBTQ+ community in the city, Sunderland AFC

As part of the Premier League Fan Fund, Sunderland AFC and the Foundation of Light will be supporting Pride in Sunderland and LGBTQ+ history month this weekend at the home game against Swansea City.

In June 2024, Sunderland will host Pride events throughout the city. Now that the annual event is under the new charity Out North East’s control, it will return larger and better than before.
Sunderland AFC has partnered with a new LGBTQ+ fan organization that will launch this season as part of their commitment to the LGBTQ+ community and to welcoming all supporters to the Stadium of Light.
“We are delighted Sunderland AFC is supporting Pride in Sunderland and the LGBTQ+ community,” stated Peter Darrant, from Out North East and Pride in Sunderland.

“Everyone can be proud of the club’s dedication to transforming the Stadium of Light into a beacon for inclusivity, as they are at the center of Sunderland’s incredible diverse community.

“Sunderland AFC is truly demonstrating itself to be a true ally as we bring Sunderland Together celebrating Pride in Sunderland with the launch of an LGBTQ+ supporters club, staff training, and plans to support Sunderland’s largest pride festival.”
“Sunderland AFC has always been my club, and I’m so excited to be part of setting up its LGBTQ+ Supporters’ Group, the Pride of Wearside,” stated supporter Matt Johnson, who is organizing the group.

“I have no doubt that our team is eager to please our supporters, and I genuinely want to ensure that everyone has a voice in determining the direction the company takes. I’m sure that our fans will have amazing ideas about what the band ought to stand for and accomplish. I’m excited to meet as many fans as I can at the fanzone on Saturday because of this.

All Sunderland AFC followers are welcome to join the fan club. Please stop by the fanzone this weekend if you’re interested in joining.
The Premier League Fans Fund provides funding to football teams at all levels in order to improve ties with their local communities and supporters. This includes projects aimed at fostering inclusivity for marginalized groups.
“The initiative is a great opportunity to shine a light on groups and projects that may be under-represented,” stated Lesley Spuhler, Chief Executive of the Foundation of Light. In addition to having a greater positive impact on the community and assisting in ensuring that football is an accessible sport, it allows the Foundation and the team to strengthen their relationships with supporters.