Manchester United have officially established a landmark alliance with Stonewall, making it the country's first football group to partner with first football club to partner with the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) charity.
Rainbow Laces is Stonewall's most prominent football campaign.
A club statement explained, "Through the partnership, United have become an official member of TeamPride, helping to form opinions, share best practice and influence behaviour by using the power of sport to harness the message of equality within the LGBT community and wider society.
"The TeamPride coalition is made up of a number of global businesses from a wide spectrum of expertise and ensures that support is given to fans, players and those involved throughout sport, in issues around homophobia and discrimination, looking at ways in which to eradicate anti-social behaviour around these areas."
United group managing director Richard Arnold said, "Manchester United always looks to be a leader in everything it does and we are proud to be the first sports club to sign up to TeamPride.
Nice one @ManUtd!
Manchester Utd becomes UK's 1st football club to partner with leading LGBT charity @stonewalluk https://t.co/Y1EQZXm9E1
"The club has an ongoing commitment to equality across all areas and with 659 followers around the world, it is our responsibility to show support and recognition to everybody who loves this football club.
"We have built up a positive working relationship with Stonewall and it's a great way for us to learn from each other and progress together as we strive for equality for all of our supporters.
Stonewall chief executive Ruth Hunt added, "It's crucial for organisations like Manchester United to show they not only welcome LGBT people, but are active in leading the change. At the moment, many LGBT people want to take part in sport, either as players or fans, but the behaviour of a minority can make them feel unsafe, unwelcome or unable to be themselves."
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