The German and English national teams have set a sign against homophobia and racism
Before and during the international match between Germany and England, both teams made a clear statement against racism and homophobia.
Before the match kicked off at the Allianz Arena, all 22 players took a knee. As is well known, kneeling now represents a sign against racism in sports. But not only the two teams decided to take a clear stand. The appointed referee of the match, Carlos del Cerro Grande, also joined in the action.
Background information: The British national team uses every international match to draw attention to the problem of racism and homophobia in sports. It does not matter whether the opposing team joins in or not. In the Allianz Arena, the British could count on the support of the German national team. The message was clear: racism and homophobia don't stand a chance here.
But during the game, the Allianz Arena also used its lighting resources to support the queer community. Perhaps also on the occasion of Pride Month, another sign was set with rainbow colors. The action was very well received by many fans.
Many use Pride Month to take a little more of a stand
Pride Month is celebrated in June. Sometimes with special actions, in big cities often with CSDs. However, it is by far not only about celebrating, but also about drawing attention to the current problems of the queer community and educating about LGBTQIA+.
Right now, the rainbow colors are shining from the packaging of many products, among others. And companies and public figures are also showing themselves in color. This was also the case at the Allianz Arena, which lit up the surroundings like a bright rainbow during the entire match against England and was thus visible from afar.
A little review: Not everyone seems to be happy about this kind of tolerance and statement. At the European Championship in particular, it was exactly this kind of arena lighting that became a big topic of contention. Some teams even threatened not to participate in the tournament if rainbow lights were used. At that time, those responsible decided to remain neutral. A statement that was chalked up to them by many people.
Should soccer take a stand at all?
Many soccer fans ask themselves, including on social networks, whether it is necessary to speak out at all. After all, it's "only about sport". Or is it? Many people disagree. They see statements like these as a great way to increase the visibility of the community and show that really EVERYONE belongs - both as a player and as a spectator.
Particularly in the field of soccer, a lot seems to have been changing for some time. It is becoming increasingly apparent that even players who play "male sports" can be gay. However, many of them fear a career end. Therefore, there are currently only...
Only two outed footballers in Europe
These are the actively playing Jake Daniels and the former German national player Thomas Hitzlsperger.
Or to put it another way: the "dark figure" of gay but not outed soccer players is probably very high. But as long as spectators use actions like the one at the "Germany vs. England" game to boo the players who show tolerance, it becomes clear that there is still a lot of educational work to be done here.