Harlequins announce a new Limited Edition LGBTQ+ Pride Supporter Kit, ahead of this Sunday’s Champions Cup match against Toulouse. Quins have teamed up with DHL and Castore for the kit, which will be worn for the first time at the Stoop.
Harlequins and DHL have invited Nigel Owens, to unveil the shirt ahead of kick-off, in front of international media and a sold-out Twickenham Stoop this weekend.
A Harlequins statement read: “The kit is the latest example of Harlequins’ on-going support for and celebration of the LGBTQ+ community, and kicks-off a range of activities to promote representation and champion inclusion in rugby, including two dedicated LGBTQ+ Pride fixtures at The Stoop – Harlequins Men vs Leicester Tigers (Friday 26 January) and Harlequins Women vs Sale Sharks (Sunday 4 February).
“The LGBTQ+ Pride-inspired design was created with partner Castore and its primary black design incorporates the various colours of the LGBTQ+ Progress Flag in a subtle yet strong design. A special LGBTQ+ DHL brand logo is incorporated into the design of the kit – the first time this has happened in rugby and a demonstration of commitment to inclusivity from Principal Partner DHL. The kit will be worn in training by both Harlequins Men’s and Women’s teams and pre match for the LGBTQ+ Pride fixtures.”
Harlequins CEO Laurie Dalrymple commented: “Harlequins and its partners share a firm belief in breaking down barriers and creating a Club for all, so we are delighted to be launching the new bespoke LGBTQ+ Pride Supporter Kit at such a high-profile match against one of the most iconic teams in world rugby.
“With a sold-out crowd at The Stoop and a big global TV audience for the match, we wanted to give the launch of the kit the maximum exposure possible. We look forward to our supporters showing their support for the Club and the LGBTQ+ community by wearing the new kit with pride.”
Harlequins Inclusivity Club Partner, the Kings Cross Steelers Rugby Club (the first LGBTQ+ inclusive rugby club in the world) and Harlequins’ Official LGBTQ+ Supporter Association, Quins Pride (the only supporters’ association of its kind in English rugby), were both supportive of the initiative and its launch.
Emily Hamilton, Chair of Quins Pride said: “In a time of unprecedented danger and increased hate crimes against the LGBTQIA community, providing welcoming and safe spaces for people to get together, enjoy sport and find family is more essential than ever. I’m proud that Harlequins have led the way in creating an inclusive environment where we celebrate our uniqueness but also share a common love of our wonderful team and sport.
“Quins Pride and Harlequins are proud to welcome everyone to our home to enjoy rugby and friendship. Wearing our community colours combined with the badge of the club we all love is a great way to show your support and demonstrate your commitment to being the most inclusive club in world rugby.”
Commenting on the announcement, Matt Webb, ex-Chairman of the Kings Cross Steelers said: “The new kit will create visibility and it’s important that people can wear clothing that they are comfortable in. It’s not just about those from the community wearing the shirts, it’s about having those from outside of the LGBTQ+ community showing that everybody is welcome.
“A lot of people feel incredibly safe and secure coming to a Quins match and this means a lot to all supporters. Everybody should feel welcome in rugby, and by supporting and wearing the shirt, supporters will show that they are an ally. And allyship is something that’s really, really important.”