DERRY City and Strabane District Council is calling for youths aged between 15 and 24 years to register to join its European Youth Capital (EYC19) 5-a-side football team competing in this year’s Foyle Pride ‘Football vs Homophobia’ tournament.
Organised as part of the Foyle Pride Festival taking place from 22nd until 28th August, the tournament is an initiative opposing homophobia in football at all levels, from grassroots to professional clubs.
One of the main themes of Council’s EYC19 bid is the promotion of Access and Inclusion and bid organisers are keen to get the youth of the city and district involved to support its message that it is a place for all people.
Oonagh McGillion, Director of Legacy at Derry City and Strabane District Council commented:
“Council is fully supportive of access and inclusion for all people participating in sport.
“Football and sport in general can help to remove prejudices such as homophobia by encouraging everyone of all genders, identities and sexual orientations to enjoy the game.
“With the city and district presenting itself as a candidate for the European Youth Capital title in 2019 it is important we showcase that inclusivity is something we value. Council is getting involved in a number of events at this year’s Foyle Pride Festival and have organised a banner making workshop at Void Gallery on Thursday 25th August from 12.00 noon until 3 pm.
A number of EYC19 Champions will then walk in the Foyle Pride parade with the banner created at the workshop.
In doing so we aim to demonstrate how we are an inclusive city and district to the rest of Europe.’
The Foyle Pride Festival will take place from 22nd until 28th August and aims to acknowledge, empower and celebrate the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transexual (LGBT) community.
The ‘Football vs Homophobia’ tournament will take place on Friday 26th August at 2.00pm in Bishops Field. Players of all genders and skill levels are being called to Bishop’s Field in Creggan on Friday 26th August to take part.
Registrations to the EYC19 5-a-side football team should be made via email to[email protected].
For further details on the Foyle Pride Festival visit,www.foylepridefestival.com.