Supporting the team as we go marching on

We were very disappointed to hear the “Chelsea Rent Boy” chant sung again on Saturday.

Whilst we are certain that 99% of supporters do not sing this with any intent to cause offence to our LGBT supporters, we must consider the impact. The term has been used over many years to victimise young homosexual men and it is disappointing to hear this chanted persistently at the Lane.

Let’s not kid ourselves that the ‘rent boy’ chant is somehow not homophobic. The dictionary is quite clear and as with the old, tired racist chants and noises that are thankfully a thing of the past, it’s implied to be insulting.

The term ‘rent boy’ makes the point that certain people aren’t welcome in our beautiful game. We know from our great work with the Club that they are completely supportive of the Proud Lilywhites and are committed to ensuring our stadium is a safe and inclusive environment for all supporters to come and watch the team and do not tolerate any form of discriminatory behaviour.

We all want the team to do well and keep up their excellent run, so let’s do it together.

The Proud Lilywhites.

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