What is Rainbow Laces?

Here at Leeds University Union (LUU), inclusivity is one of our core values. We’re committed to creating an environment where everyone feels seen, supported, and celebrated—no matter their background, course, or interests.

That’s why we’ve teamed up with Rainbow Laces, a national campaign by Stonewall that champions LGBTQ+ inclusion in sport. The aim? To make sport everyone’s game by showing that teams are welcoming spaces where people can be their true selves.

 

By lacing up with Rainbow Laces, our sports teams show visible support for LGBTQ+ players, teammates, and fans. It’s a simple way to stand up for equality and help make sport more fun, safe, and inclusive for all.

We’re encouraging all our clubs and players to get involved—because when everyone feels like they belong, sport becomes better for everyone.

Lace up and show your support. Let’s make sport safer for all.

Our Commitment

We believe sports should be a welcoming space for everyone, regardless of gender identity or sexual orientation. Through the Rainbow Laces campaign, we’re working to:

  • Challenge homophobia, biphobia, and transphobia in sports.
  • Increase LGBTQIA+ people and increase visibility on and off the pitch.
  • Encourage inclusive participation across all sports clubs.
  • Support trans and non-binary inclusion in collaboration with students and national bodies.

Varsity Rainbow Laces Campaign: Loud, Proud and Laced Up

This year, Rainbow Laces is teaming up with the University of Leeds and Leeds Beckett to bring the Rainbow Laces message to Varsity 2025. Expect pride, visibility, and some serious colour.

What to Expect:

  • Two thousand pairs of Rainbow Laces to be distributed to student-athletes and sports clubs.
  • Inclusive branding and banners at Varsity matches.
  • LGBTQ+ representation across our sports events.
  • Free resources for team captains on inclusive language and practices.

 

Sound good? Here's How to Get Involved

Whether you’re playing, cheering from the sidelines, or just want to show your support, there are loads of ways to get stuck in:

  1.  Pick up your Rainbow Laces from LUU Activities Desk (on Level 1 of LUU, open 10am-5pm)
  2. Join our mixed-gender tournaments
    We’re running some entry-level, inclusive tournaments anyone can join, regardless of age or expression.

Football | 4 May | Sports Park Weetwood LS16 5AU

Netball | 24 May | Gryphon Sports Centre LS2 9LZ

  • Show your support online
    Post a pic in your laces, hashtag #RainbowLaces, and tag us @LeedsUniUnion so we can share the love!

Resources- Coming Soon

We’re working on a few handy resources to help our clubs get even more inclusive. Keep an eye out for:

  •  LGBTQIA+ Inclusive Sports Guide for Captains
  •  Event Calendar

(We’ll upload these once they’re ready!)

Got Questions? Want to Get Involved?

If you’ve got questions, want to get involved, or have feedback about inclusivity in sport at Leeds, contact:

Amara – Equality & Liberation Officer
Email: a.relf@luu.ac.uk

Lydia – Activities & Opportunities Officer
Email: l.shale@leeds.ac.uk