LAFC, The Pride Republic and The 3252 Independent Supporters Union are collaborating again to ensure that all LAFC fans have an inclusive, welcoming, and safe experience at home in 2022.
Both groups worked together to combat an anti-gay slur often shouted by soccer fans at goal kicks at stadiums around world. LAFC has taken many steps to eliminate the chant from its Stadium over the years. As the 2022 season begins, LAFC is intensifying efforts to make clear that the offensive goal kick song will not be tolerated at Banc of California Stadium.
Larry Freedman, LAFC Co-President and Chief Business Officer, stated that the vision and mission of LAFC has been to create a Club where everyone feels welcome. Since the Clubs inception we have worked to create an inclusive atmosphere and will continue to do so. These new measures will help to eliminate hateful and negative language during matches. They will also be combined with the efforts of The 3252, Pride Republic, and community organizations like The Los Angeles LGBT Center to ensure that everyone feels they belong in our stadium.
LAFC and The 3252 plan to deploy multiple strategies in the stadium in 2022. This will include increased security personnel and staff who are trained and dedicated exclusively to dealing with this issue. Any fans found participating in offensive chanting and other prohibited acts will be removed permanently from the stadium. Season members will also have their membership revoked.
Director of Policy and Community Building Joey Espinoza Hernndez stated that LAFC has made every effort to make its home games more welcoming. Local soccer fans have been turning to the Center for years to voice their concerns and fears about hearing anti-LGBTQ slurs being hurled at opposing teams in various venues. We are encouraged to see that this season, positive changes are in store. Everyone should have fun cheering on their favorite teams.
LAFC also updated their fan code of conduct video. This reinforces the Clubs mission to create an inclusive environment for all members and the zero tolerance policy on hurtful language. This video will also be shown in-stadium during all home matches.
Paul Ruiz, co-founder of the Pride Republic Supporters Group, stated that when Banc of California Stadium opened, they told us that everyone belongs in LA. Pride Republic is where we live and breathe this.”Everybody” refers to the teenager who is there with her family, the boy with his uncles and dad in the South End, or the couple who are coming to their first game.It causes real harm. Instead, use your voice to support the Club and city and sing loudly with the 3252!
LAFC, Pride Republic, 3252 and Los Angeles LGBT Center have the goal to ensure that everyone who goes to a game has a safe, fun, and free from homophobia or transphobia.
The 3252 believes everyone should feel safe, included, and welcome while enjoying the game. KC Garcia, President of 3252 Independent Supporters Union stated that. The chant discriminates against members in our community and goes against our morals and ideals.
A variety of players from different languages offer a message in the video that reads: Our club is for everyone. To create the best atmosphere possible in MLS, we need you to stand shoulder-to-shoulder with us. Stop the hateful chants during goal kicks. We will not tolerate racism, sexism and homophobia in our stadium.
LAFC will begin regular season play Saturday, February 26, against the Colorado Rapids at 12:00 p.m. PT via Univision and TUDN. The Portland Timbers will take on LAFC Sunday, March 6, at 7 p.m. PT via Fox Deportes and FS1.
Only a few 2022 Season Memberships are still available. Single match tickets are also available. Visit lafc.com/tickets for more information.