The Rainbow Rangers logo
Queens Park Rangers FC have added rainbows to their hoops by forming its first LGBT supporters' group.
The Rainbow Rangers are a new group designed to help welcome QPR fans from the LGBT (lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender) communities and support the club’s continued campaign to kick homophobia out of football.
The Rainbow Rangers were formed after the positive feedback to an advert in a QPR matchday programme. QPR fan and group leader Emma Miller-McCaffrey placed the advert and was overwhelmed with the response from the Hoops faithful.
“We’re very proud of the support QPR has shown us in getting the group off the ground,” she said. “In return, we hope to do the club proud by helping to further develop their work in promoting diversity and inclusion in the stands and beyond.”
Hammersmith & Fulham Council praised the decision and is committed to making the borough as safe and inclusive as possible for all residents.
“This is a fantastic move by QPR and another great local group that strengthens our drive to support and protect the LGBTQI community,” said Cllr Sue Fennimore, Deputy Leader of H&F Council. “We are determined to make the borough one of the best places to live, work and socialise in Europe.”
The newly-formed group will be formally introduced at Loftus Road during QPR’s game with Aston Villa on 18 November.
All as one
“QPR welcomes all supporters, regardless of race, religion, sexuality or gender – and the Rainbow Rangers group is further evidence of that,” said Andy Evans, QPR in the Community Trust CEO. “We look forward to working with them and are excited about how the group can develop and grow in the future.”
Each year, the rainbow flag is flown at Hammersmith Town Hall during the Pride in London festival. This year, the council screened a fantastic documentary about the Pride in London movement at the Lyric Theatre in support of LGBTQI residents. Council staff members even wore rainbow laces throughout the festivities in honour of the LGBTQI community.
Do you want to join the Rainbow Rangers?
If so, email queensparkrangerslgbt@outlook.com for more details.
