The Charlton family have been nominated in a trio of categories at the upcoming Football v Homophobia awards in February
Charlton have been nominated for the “Club” category, Charlton Invicta, run by the Community Trust, have been nominated for the “Grassroots” award, while Rob Harris, Chairperson of the Proud Valiants has been nominated for the “Hero” prize.
Charlton have made it a priority to fight homophobia within football with a series of activities and programmes throughout the calendar year including dedicating one matchday each season to the cause while also hosting the annual Charlton vs Homophobia tournament in association with the Proud Valiants which will return for the fifth year in May.
Executive Chairman Matt Southall said: “The club has a long history in leading the fight against discrimination in football dating back to the work done around Red, White and Black Day in the 1990s.
“Charlton, the community trust and our supporters have done a lot of positive work in tackling homophobia in football and we are proud to see the work recognised by receiving three nominations at the Football v Homophobia awards.”
Speaking of his nomination Harris said: “To be shortlisted for this award by such an amazing organisation is overwhelming. Football v Homphobia spends every working day campaigning to make football a safer place where it can be enjoyed by all. Being recognised in such a way is very humbling. Ever since I can remember I have always wanted to live in a society where everybody is equal and that prejudice towards somebody for who they are in not acceptable.
“This belief and passion has always fired what I want to see in football. Working closely with Charlton Athletic and the club’s community trust is such a pleasure and although this award nomination names me as an individual, it is as much for my fellow committee officers and for all members & allies of the Proud Valiants - and reflects all the amazing work we do as a team.”
Director of Football v Homophobia Lou Englefield said: “This season, for our February Month of Action, Football v Homophobia launched the FvH Awards. We wanted to celebrate all the great work that has been happening to make sure LGBT+ people can enjoy football.
“To have been shortlisted in three categories is a testament to all the work of Charlton Athletic, its supporters and the Community Trust to make the game inclusive and welcoming of everyone.”
The awards evening will take place on February 7th.
