Manchester United defeated Exeter City and Arsenal to win the Professional Club category at the 2024 FootballvHomophobia Awards.
At the 2024 FootballvHomophobia Awards, Manchester United defeated Arsenal to take home the highest prize for their efforts to combat prejudice.
The purpose of the awards ceremony, which was held at Manchester’s National sport Museum, was to draw attention to the efforts being made to eradicate homophobia in sport. In the professional team category, United, Arsenal, and League Two’s Exeter City were all nominated.
With Exeter in third place and Arsenal in second, United emerged victorious. The delegation lead by the club’s director of fan interaction, Rick McGagh, accepted the award.
In their programme, the organisers, the advocacy group FootballvHomophobia, commended United for their efforts to put an end to the ‘Chelsea Rent Boy’ song. “United have made concerted efforts to eradicate this discriminatory chant aimed at Chelsea fans, players and those connected to the Blues,” reads the section on United.
“With close collaboration with Rainbow Devils, a support group, both game attendees and non-attendees were educated about and encouraged to show empathy for the LGBTQ+ community, leading to measurable outcomes.” Community-building activities like the panel discussion “One Love Live” were successful in fostering a sense of camaraderie, and the nominations also emphasised the Foundation’s work with local LGBTQ+ youngsters.”
In addition to celebrating their victory, Eric Najib, who placed third in the FvH Hero category, was also lauded by the Rainbow Devils, Manchester United’s LGBT+ supporters organisation. “A truly amazing night at the FootballvHomophobia Awards!” they wrote.
“Manchester United WON the Professional Club Award, while our chair Eric Najib came 3rd in a close-run contest for the FvH Hero award. Very proud of both today and what they have both achieved over the last few years!
High recognition was also given to Arsenal for their efforts, particularly in the background to ensure that every employee feels free to be who they are. The foundation of the Premier League team’s larger ‘Arsenal For Everyone’ campaign has been its steadfast, continuous support of the GayGooners. Employees constantly exhibit a cooperative and sympathetic demeanour,” the programme notes stated.
“And there were instances where LGBTQ+ workers felt fully welcomed and included. The Emirates now shows a powerful video on anti-discrimination messaging every matchday, which successfully reaches the whole fan base.”
In another instance, Chelsea Pride chair Tracy Brown defeated Najib to win the title of FvH Hero. Scottish professional football player Zander Murray was also awarded an Outstanding Contribution Award for his efforts following his coming out in September 2022.
