This is the new battle for rugby, a sport whose famous “values” have been largely undermined in recent months. The fight against homophobia in rugby as part of a social program launched by the League (LNR) and the Federation (FFR). This is a social program “Celebrating Diversity” launched by the LNR and which received the support of the FFR.
Antoine Dupont, the emblematic captain of the French XV and Olympic rugby sevens champion, speaks in this program. “In rugby everyone is welcome,” he says in the clip “Our diversity, our strength”.
Starting from the 9th matchday of the championship this weekend, the film will be shown on big screens in the Top 14 and Pro D2 stadiums. Broadcasts are also planned during the French team’s November matches against Japan, New Zealand and Argentina.
We also find him in a longer video “Behind the scenes”. “Being a rugby player and being gay today, obviously it’s possible,” he explains. In simple words, Dupont continues: “Then it’s up to the person to decide how to tell their partners, even the world of rugby in general, so that it is accepted as much as possible. It is also up to everyone to be aware of this, to have a fairly educational conversation with young people, and also on a professional level, to say that it is a very open environment and that there are no concerns about sexual orientations. Even though it remains a very masculine sport, one does not prevent the other. »
“People need to get more comfortable with this”
Dupont is not the only one to support the fight against homophobia. Julien Marchand, his teammate in Blue and at Toulouse, is in tune. “As long as you’re good on the pitch, that’s the most important thing,” notes Marchand. It doesn’t matter what you think, what you do off the field. Today people need to get more comfortable with this. And they say it and don’t hide it. Because they are the ones who are right. (…) If the person came to see me directly, I’m sure it would go very well. »
Cyril Baille is even more direct: “If I have someone next to me, who plays with me, who is gay, or who has any sexual representation, I will do everything to try to integrate and not feel excluded. »
We hope these strong words from strong men in this sport help set words and men free.
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Interview: The Values of Rugged Change in Rugby
Editor (Time.news): Welcome to Time.news! Today, we’re diving into the heart of rugby, a sport steeped in tradition but facing contemporary challenges. We have with us Dr. Claire Moreau, a sociologist specializing in sports culture and LGBTQ+ inclusivity. Claire, thank you for joining us today.
Dr. Claire Moreau: Thank you for having me! It’s great to be here and discuss a topic that is so crucial for the future of rugby.
Editor: Let’s kick things off with the recent initiative “Celebrating Diversity” launched by the National Rugby League (LNR) and the French Rugby Federation (FFR). What brought about this significant shift in focus towards inclusivity in rugby?
Dr. Moreau: Rugby has a storied past that emphasizes values like respect, integrity, and solidarity. However, recent incidents of homophobia have raised concerns about how well these values are being upheld. The “Celebrating Diversity” initiative is a direct response to those challenges, aiming to promote a culture that includes everyone, regardless of their sexual orientation.
Editor: Antoine Dupont, the captain of the French XV, said, “In rugby everyone is welcome.” How impactful do you think his endorsement and participation in this campaign will be for players and fans alike?
Dr. Moreau: Dupont’s voice is pivotal. As a prominent figure in French rugby, his statement not only resonates with players but also reaches fans who look up to him. When a respected leader advocates for inclusivity, it sets a powerful precedent. His involvement will likely encourage open conversations among players and fans, fostering a more accepting environment within the sport.
Editor: The campaign includes showing a film on big screens at major matches. Do you think such visibility initiatives can genuinely change perceptions, especially within traditional sports communities?
Dr. Moreau: Absolutely! Visible representation within the sport is critical. Spectators often absorb messages at a subconscious level. By displaying themes of diversity and inclusion in high-profile settings, it challenges preconceived notions and encourages acceptance. This visibility bridges the gap between the LGBTQ+ community and rugby, making it clear that everyone belongs.
Editor: Dupont also mentions in a more intimate video that players who are gay can feel accepted in the sport. How significant is it for athletes to share personal narratives like this?
Dr. Moreau: Personal narratives are incredibly impactful. When athletes share their experiences, they humanize the issues at hand. It creates a space where others might feel safe to disclose their own identities. This is particularly important in environments like rugby, where traditional masculinity can sometimes create barriers. The more we hear from individuals like Dupont, the more we dismantle stereotypes and foster empathy.
Editor: As we look to the future, what are some concrete steps the rugby community can take to further this movement towards inclusivity?
Dr. Moreau: There are multiple avenues. First, training and educational programs aimed at discouraging homophobic language and behavior in the sport can go a long way. Additionally, promoting more diverse representations within coaching and administration roles helps shift the culture from the top down. Lastly, creating safe spaces for open discussions among players can further normalise the topic of inclusivity in rugby.
Editor: It truly sounds like rugby has the potential to lead the charge in sports towards diversity and acceptance. What message do you hope fans, young players, and even organizations take away from this initiative?
Dr. Moreau: I hope they realize that diversity is indeed a strength, as the campaign underscores. Every individual, regardless of their background, brings unique perspectives that enrich not just the sport of rugby but society as a whole. Rugby can be a model for acceptance and unity, demonstrating that when we embrace our differences, we become stronger together.
Editor: Thank you, Claire, for sharing your insights with us today. It’s encouraging to see the rugby community move towards greater inclusivity, and we look forward to seeing how this unfolds in the coming months.
Dr. Moreau: Thank you for having me. Together, we can all contribute to a more inclusive sporting world!