Trans teen activist’s uplifting speech is a highlight at Football v Homophobia

[Jessica_Rose]

Trans teen activist's uplifting speech is a highlight at Football v Homophobia Awards gala

https://www.msn.com/en-us/sports/soccer/trans-teen-activist-s-uplifting-speech-is-a-highlight-at-football-v-homophobia-awards-gala/ar-AA1ADu4B?ocid=hpmsn&cvid=9b6fc91009434eb8ffedb4aeeaf1762e&ei=110

Story by Jon Holmes (10 March 2025)

The world's most popular sport rarely feels as welcoming to LGBTQ people as it does on Football v Homophobia Awards night.

Soundtracked by b->-bleeped-<-ipes and with a boisterous, big-hearted crowd packed into a beautiful converted church in Glasgow, Scotland...

Among those recognized for their achievements in inclusion and advocacy was 16-year-old Emily Waldron, a Liverpool FC fan and a player for trailblazing trans and nonbinary club TRUK United.

Accepting the third-place trophy, the teenage activist referenced the famous "football is life" adage from TV show "Ted Lasso" before delivering a stirring speech on behalf of trans youth.

"Football has been there for me through my darkest moments to light the way, and it's been the reason for some of my happiest moments," said Emily, after receiving a confidence-boosting hug from awards night co-host Zander Murray, the first out gay Scottish pro player in the men's game.

Calling for clubs everywhere to provide access to safe and inclusive football spaces for gender-diverse young people, she added: "Trans kids are dealing with a lot right now, and we are pushed aside in so many aspects of our lives. We deserve better.

"To all the amazing trans kids out there, we belong in football, in sports, and in every aspect of life, and we deserve to take up space.

The Merseyside teen received a standing ovation from the 200 guests, and wrote afterwards that she hoped those in the room to "influence change" would do so.