The FA will outline its vision of equality and opportunity in a keynote speech at a major European conference on Homosexuality and Disability in Sports.
Already regarded as leading the way on combating homophobia, The FA will be explaining its policies and actions to other national associations and interested groups at the European Conference on Homosexuality and Disability in Sports to be held in Munich on 30 July.
The FA’s Head of Ethics and Sports Equity, Lucy Faulkner, will lead the debate, following on from the summit staged in Soho Square that looked at how to confront homophobia in sport and provide a pathway to ensure access for everyone, including the gay, lesbian, bisexual and transsexual communities (GLBT).
“A recent survey found that 59% of European citizens feel that sport is a way of countering all forms of discrimination,” says Lucy.
“We passionately believe that football is the best way to break down barriers and create a more inclusive society.”
The conference also focuses on disability in sport. The FA launched its Disability Football strategy earlier this year that highlighted the determination to ensure disability would be no barrier to participation.
The FA also staged a series of conferences around the country, providing an awareness of the new Disability Discrimination Act and its significance for football.
“We believe football does reflect society and also believe very strongly that we have a duty to use the power of football to build a better future.
"Changing attitudes in society is not our responsibility but because we reflect society and are involved in a sport that has considerable influence on people, and also involves many millions of participants, we have a moral duty to contribute to changing attitudes and supporting the tackling of some of society’s problems,” adds Lucy.
