England Rugby and Premiership Rugby have announced a commitment to work with Stonewall, which will see the three organisations support and promote LGBT inclusion in rugby.

As part of their commitment, England Rugby, Premiership Rugby and the Rugby Players’ Association (RPA) will once again support the Rainbow Laces campaign, scheduled for November 2017.

As part of England Rugby’s four year strategic plan, which was announced last week, the governing body re-stated its ongoing commitment to diversity and inclusion at all levels of the game.

England Rugby will be promoting Stonewall’s Rainbow Laces campaign in Twickenham Stadium during England’s match against Samoa on Saturday 25th November with rainbow LEDs and big screen VTs promoting the campaign,

Clubs and players across the community will also be informed of ways to promote inclusion and how to get behind the campaign.

RFU Rugby Development Director, Steve Grainger, said: “Rugby is a game for all and at the core of our strategic plan is our commitment to ensuring that rugby provides an inclusive and welcoming environment for all across every level of the game.”

“We are delighted to join forces with Stonewall, Premiership Rugby and the RPA on Rainbow Laces and to raise awareness for the inclusive nature of the sport and ensure the LGBT community feel supported whether they are players, coaches, referees, volunteers or spectators.”

CEO of Stonewall, Ruth Hunt, added: “We know that rugby is one of England’s most popular sports and we know that it prides itself on being inclusive, with respect, teamwork and sportsmanship as one of its core values.”

Source : England Rugby