Taking part in what should have been the 4th World OutGames has learned us a few lessons about how to (and how not to!) organize major sporting events. But most of all, we’ve become even more aware of why we still need inclusive sporting events. Here are seven reasons we’d like to share with you:
- LGBTQ athletes deserve secure surroundings and a safe space to compete in. That is exactly what inclusive sporting events provide.
- When LGBTQ athletes from all over the world and all walks of life get together for a week of sports, it creates an unparalleled atmosphere of empowerment.
- Inclusive sporting events is often the first step of LGBTQ athletes into the wider athletic community, and thereby they serve to increase the talent pool in general.
- Inclusive sporting events is a great platform for athletes, activists and advocates to share knowledge and discuss strategies and tactics to break down barriers in sports.
- These events play an important role in raising awareness in the wider athletic community and among mainstream sports associations about the struggles still facing LGBTQ athletes.
- Showing the rest of the world the athletic performances of LGBTQ athletes serves the purpose of challenging and breaking down stereotypes.
- Gathering LGBTQ atheletes from all parts of the world amplifies our voices when we call on decision-makers and other stakeholders to take action and combat discrimination in sports.
Copenhagen 2021 is the mega event that combines EuroGames and WorldPride for the first time ever. We invite the whole world to a spectacular celebration of sportsmanship, LGBTQ rights and love – wrapped up in a rainbow-colored pride party where #YouAreIncluded.