The Minister for Tourism, Sport and Major Events Steve Dimopoulos today announced a $200,000 investment to support the event, celebrating the inclusion of LGBTIQ+ communities in sport.
It will include a Victory Pride Village at Gosch’s Paddock full of activities and events to engage and entertain the broader community, and ensure a safe, welcoming and inclusive environment for all supporters attending.
People from LGBTIQ+ communities face unique barriers to participation in sport and active recreation. The effects of exclusion can be profound, contributing to disproportionately high rates of mental health issues and suicide.
The Pride Cup will highlight the significant role the sporting community can play in creating a positive and inclusive environment for all Victorians while encouraging more people to participate in sport.
The event is aligned with the Labor Government’s Active Victoria Strategy and Pride in our Future: Victoria’s LGBTIQ+ Strategy.
The organiser – Pride Cup Limited – is a not-for-profit organisation that uses education and awareness-raising at sporting and cultural events to make LGBTIQ+ communities feel safe, welcome and accepted.
The Minister for Tourism, Sport and Major Events Steve Dimopoulos said that sport is a key area to create safe, inclusive and welcoming environments for the LGBTIQ+ communities – and to improve mental health and challenge stereotypes.
Minister for Equality Harriet Shing says “It’s so important for our sporting codes to be safe and inclusive environments that reflect and celebrate the diversity in Victoria, including LGBTIQ+ communities”.
Pride Cup CEO James Lolicato says, “We are so thrilled to be partnered with Melbourne Victory, Adelaide United and the State Government to celebrate LGBTIQ+ inclusion in football.
“Working with two clubs so enthusiastic and dedicated to creating meaningful change in the culture of sport is very special, and we couldn’t be prouder to deliver this event.”
