Rainbow Hatters chair David Stronell visited Football Pride 2024 last week along with Luton Town fan engagement officer Lisa McEvoy.

We asked both David and Lisa to share their experience of the day at Stamford Bridge ahead of this weekend’s Pride In Luton event, which takes place on Saturday 6th July.

David said: “As we came to the end of Pride Month, I felt it was important to visit Football Pride 2024 to ensure that Luton Town and the Rainbow Hatters start to get out in the community, network with other LGBTQ+ supporters clubs and help gather ideas for how we can improve and grow going forward.

“It was a brilliant day with various very informative panel discussions, including discussions on the difference between the men’s and women’s game and different levels of acceptance of diverse groups within each.

“It was also interesting to hear from Zander Murray, a retired Scottish Professional Out Player, about how few out players there are in the men’s profession, against the women's team.

“Discussion also looked ahead to the World Cup in 2026 in USA, Canada and Mexico and the challenges that the LGBTQ+ supporters may face and the opportunities there are for the community after recent World Cups in more challenging countries, Qatar and Russia.

“It was also mentioned and goes to show the challenges the LGBTQ+ community has in the current political polarisation across Europe, that UEFA and the football bodies have made no effort to reference Pride and LGBTQ+ rights within this year’s Euros being held in Germany, and the lost opportunity to push for better inclusion within the men’s game.

“The day ended with excellent networking including other clubs and support groups including Prideinfootball.org.

“As we go forward with our season back in the EFL Championship we have a good opportunity to grow the Rainbow Hatters and connect with the other groups across the leagues.”

Luton Town fan engagement officer Lisa McEvoy added: “Attending Football Pride was a great opportunity for education, and support for our Rainbow Hatters Chair David as he works to build this supporter group and promote Luton Town as a safe place for all.

“Hearing first-hand accounts from players, supporters, those in a position of power and allies, really shows that there is still so much work to be done to provide inclusivity within football.

“That said, it was also reassuring to know that changes are happening, and voices are being heard, thanks to events like this and Pride month itself.

“We will always show our support here at Luton Town for Equality, Diversity and Inclusion and are always happy to learn and make changes where and when we can. We’re all Luton.”

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