SuperValu has partnered with GAA Referee David Gough and Cork Ladies footballer Hannah Looney for a wonderful initiative this Pride. “Wear with Pride” aims to show support to the LGBTQ+ community in Ireland and raise funds for LGBTQ+ youth organisation Belong To.

During the month of June, rainbow laces will be available to purchase in local SuperValu stores across the country with proceeds going in support of support Belong To.

“Wear with Pride” is part of SuperValu’s GAA #ComunityIncludesEveryone campaign. Now in its third year, the campaign hopes to foster a sense of inclusion and allyship within the GAA and its fanbase, as well as Ireland as a whole. 

David Gough, the GAA’s first openly gay referee, said he is proud to participate in this campaign. He noted that “while positive studies have been made, there is still much to do to ensure everyone is included within our communities”. 

The referee also added that “a campaign like ‘Wear with Pride’ goes a long way to offering visible support to members of the LGBTQ+ community within Gaelic Games and across the country”. He urged “everyone to lace up this Pride month and show their support” for the LGBTQ+ community in June and beyond.

Belong To CEO Moninne Griffith shared this sentiment, noting that even though sporting groups are becoming more accepting of LGBTQ+ youth, “there is still work to do to ensure that sport is inclusive to everyone”. Griffith added that she believes that participating in the “Wear with Pride” campaign will “send a strong message to the LGBTQ+ community, saying ‘you are welcome here!’” 

Cork Ladies footballer Hannah Looney commented on the campaign, saying: “As a member of the LGBTQ+ community, I know just how impactful people’s support can be. My teammates and I are looking forward to showing our support for the LGBTQ+ community in Gaelic Games and encourage everyone to get involved this Pride month.”

So what are you waiting for? Go grab some rainbow shoelaces at your local SuperValu and help spread the message. And to keep up with the #CommunityIncludesEveryone campaign during Pride Month and beyond, be sure to follow SuperValu on all social media.