A Unifying Message for Equality
This weekend, all 36 teams in France’s top two football leagues, Ligue 1 and Ligue 2, will be making a significant statement. In honor of International Women’s Day on March 8, the jerseys worn by players will feature a unique and powerful message: "WO=MAN." This phrase is more than just a slogan; it’s a call for equality and inclusion, designed to remind everyone that women are an integral part of the football community. The initiative is part of a broader campaign organized by the Ligue de Football Professionnel (LFP) and its partners to ensure that stadiums are safe and respectful spaces for all.
The Power of Partnership
One of the key partners in this campaign is Her Game Too France, a branch of the UK-based organization that fights against sexism in sports. Anoush Morel, president of Her Game Too France, explains the significance of the message: "We wanted it to be positive, to remind people that women are in stadiums, watching football. The print on the shirt is a symbol of inclusion, aimed at making women and young girls feel part of the game." The LFP has collaborated with Her Game Too France to deliver workshops to all 36 Ligue 1 and Ligue 2 teams. These workshops focus on educating players, fans, and club staff about what sexism is, how it manifests, and the consequences of such behavior. The response has been overwhelmingly positive, with players expressing gratitude for the initiative and the impact it could have on their daughters and the broader community.
Beyond the Jerseys
The campaign extends beyond just the jerseys. After the weekend’s matches, the shirts will be auctioned off on the MatchWornShirt platform, with all proceeds going to the campaign’s three partner organizations: Her Game Too France, the Foundation pour le Sport Inclusif, and Colosse aux pieds d’Argile. These organizations are dedicated to combating sexism and sexual violence in football and are working to create a safer and more inclusive environment for all fans. The auction serves as a practical way to fund their efforts, ensuring that the message of equality is accompanied by tangible actions.
Addressing the Issue Head-On
To further support this initiative, a method to report sexist incidents has been introduced across France, with QR codes placed in women’s toilets. Clubs have also assigned staff members to address sexist incidents on matchdays, providing a clear and accessible point of contact for anyone who experiences or witnesses such behavior. This proactive approach is crucial in creating a culture of accountability and respect. Anoush Morel emphasizes the importance of these measures: "We want to engage in conversation and create a safe space where everyone feels heard and supported. It’s about more than just words; it’s about taking action to make a real difference."
A Step Forward, But More to Do
While this weekend’s initiative marks a significant step forward, Her Game Too France acknowledges that there is still much work to be done. The organization highlights that French clubs are lagging behind their UK counterparts in terms of social self-regulation, though there are still challenges to address in both countries. New research from Kick It Out, a UK-based organization, shows that over half (52%) of women have experienced or witnessed sexist behavior or language on matchdays. Furthermore, 85% of those who have experienced or witnessed such incidents have never reported them, citing a lack of faith in the reporting process and a belief that their concerns would not be taken seriously.
A Global Movement for Change
Despite these challenges, the campaign in France is part of a growing global movement to tackle sexism in football. Her Game Too France is not alone in its efforts; similar initiatives are emerging around the world, demonstrating a collective commitment to creating a more inclusive and respectful environment for all fans. This weekend’s message on the jerseys is a powerful symbol of this movement, reminding everyone that football is for everyone, and that every voice matters. As Anoush Morel puts it, "This is just the beginning. We are committed to continuing our work and ensuring that women and girls can enjoy football without fear of discrimination or harassment."
