MLS WORKS, Major League Soccer’s community outreach initiative, launched a new platform called Soccer For All on Thursday, dedicated to providing an environment in which staff, players, partners and fans are treated with dignity and respect.
Symbolizing the fact that everyone is welcome to MLS regardless of race, color, religion, national origin, gender, gender identity, disability, sexual orientation or socioeconomic status, Soccer For All emphasizes Major League Soccer’s commitment to end discrimination and showcases the collective efforts taking place throughout the league to drive positive social change.
MLS and its clubs will celebrate Soccer For All Month in June, showcasing the collective efforts taking place throughout the league to foster more inclusive communities. Soccer For All will also support clubs’ local efforts related to commemorative awareness months including Black History Month, LGBTQ Pride Month and Hispanic Heritage Month.
Built on the foundation established by Don’t Cross the Line, the new initiative will integrate and promote a number of existing partnerships and programs, including the Special Olympics Unified Sports Exchange Program (exhibition matches between soccer teams comprised of players with and without intellectual disabilities), RISE (Ross Initiative in Sports for Equality) and the US Soccer Foundation (providing underserved youth with access to quality soccer programming and critical life skills).
Soccer For All is anchored by a public service announcement in English, Spanish and French – representing all 23 MLS clubs – that depicts the diversity of our players and promotes the message that all are welcome. Fans are encouraged to show their support by sharing the PSA through their social media channels and joining the conversation on Twitter using #SoccerForAll.
