In just a few days, the world’s attention comes home again to Bermuda to toast the 30th anniversary of the World Rugby Classic – and to celebrate equality and inclusion on and off the field.
Since 1988, the top names in international rugby have headed to Bermuda for the World Rugby Classic, one of the most exciting events on Bermuda’s sports calendar. Thousands of fans from Bermuda and around the world once again enjoy a week of great international rugby, social events and an atmosphere unique in the game.
The difference this year? For the first time, the Irish Legends rugby team will wear rainbow shoe laces to send a message of equality, sportsmanship and inclusion especially meaningful to OUTBermuda and Bermuda’s LGBTQ families and citizens.
Speaking for OUTBermuda, Adrian Hartnett-Beasley said, “Growing up, there should be no barrier to sports based on your sexual orientation – every person belongs in the game, including every LGBTQ child and family. We are honored to partner with the World Rugby Classic to involve everyone in support of LGBTQ equality. Personally, as someone who grew up playing rugby in Bermuda and in youth exhibitions at the Classic, I’m thrilled as an out gay Bermudian that diversity and inclusion are being further recognized and affirmed in Bermuda. Lacing up may seem a small thing to do, yet this has a lasting impact for every sports fan and every player. If just one person is positively affected by this initiative, then it has been successful.”
Click here to read the full World Classic Rugby pdf press release 11-1-2018
