How the NWSL Is Celebrating Pride

June 8, 2021
By Hope Quinonez

There is no doubt that the National Women’s Soccer League and its players are striving to make a change in women’s sports and society. Many NWSL players have taken a stand to fight for what they believe in and use their platforms and voices to make a change. There are several issues that affect society as a whole and need to be brought to the surface and that is exactly what the NWSL and its players are doing. From social injustice, to gender inequality and LGBTQ rights, NWSL teams are doing their parts in making a difference and taking a stand to make the world a better place.

Each NWSL team participates in Pride Nights where they donate proceeds to charities. The spark to celebrate the LGBTQ community occurred in 2015 when most teams celebrated the Supreme Court’s ruling in favor of same-sex marriage. As several players in the NWSL have fought for inclusivity in women’s sports, the NWSL made sure they advocated for their players and demonstrated their support for the LGBTQ community.

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As Pride month kicked off, the NWSL teams and the league itself, updated their social media accounts with rainbow variations of their logos. Throughout the month, NWSL teams will continue to celebrate their players and fans. We’ve already seen various players sport Pride merch before games.

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In previous Pride months, almost every NWSL team has worn rainbow colors on their jerseys, Pride warm-up shirts, donated to charities, and played a dedicated Pride Game. The Orlando Pride and the Houston Dash have both worn rainbow jerseys in the past. Additionally, the Dash has a strong following from the LGBTQ community and there is not one match that you will not see a pride banner or flag being waved even outside Pride Month. Both the North Carolina Courage and Gotham FC, formerly Sky Blue FC, extended their celebrations by having Pride Week and themed matches.

Alongside the NWSL teams that are taking a stand, several NWSL players have also made sure to fight for inclusivity and equality within the sports world and society. Megan Rapinoe, Ali Krieger, Ashlynn Harris, Quinn, Jess Fishlock, and many more have been outspoken in advocating for the LGBTQ community. Although society has a long way to go, the NWSL is definitely making a difference and making sure all players and fans have a safe space to be themselves and feel accepted.

Featured Image via @ThornsFC on Instagram