Charlton has become the second professional football club to sign the Government’s Charter for Action, two days after Wycombe Wanderers. The Charter was launched by Equalities Minister Lynne Featherstone at a special rugby legue match between Sheffield Eagles and Wigan, during which the home team wore shirts emblazoned with the logo: “Homophobia – Tackle it!” and the Schools OUT and Pride Sports logos.
There was some concern about media reporting of the charter in recent days. LGBT History Month co-chair said: “We are delighted that major football teams are beginning to show their commitment and we look forward to progress being made. However I would remind the media that the charter does not require sports institutions merely to challenge homophobia and transphobia, as they currently appear to think. Clubs and teams are required to make themselves inclusive and welcoming to LGBT people as participants and spectators, which is about positive action and recruitment; rather than just bring sanctions against bullies and bigots.
After signing the charter, the Greenwich team has just beaten Hartlepool away by 4 goals to nil, so maybe signing the charter beings good fortune. It certainly suggests that being LGBT friendly can improve performance!”