This week marked our 6th anniversary. On 28th November 2018, Villa & Proud was launched at the memorable 5-5 game against Nottingham Forest.
In 6 years, we've built a network of LGBTQ+ fans and allies across the Midlands, the rest of the UK and even worldwide. We've had our ups and downs, with some brilliant events, difficult lockdowns, new awareness campaigns and the challenges of adjusting to life post pandemic. During this time, we even won an FSA award!
Now with over 600 members, as a network we have gone from strength to strength. We're unbelievable proud of the progress we've made, but there is so much more to do.
You may have noticed that we've been quieter than usual in recent weeks and months. However, this was with good reason! As we enter our 7th year, we wanted to provide an update as to what we've been up to:
Firstly, we have crafted a new detailed Villa & Proud strategy that enables us to empower and support as many LGBTQ+ people as possible, in a more effective way. This will be rolled out in 2025. (more info to follow)
We have also updated our mission statement to reflect our broader objectives "To empower, support and build LGBTQ+ inclusion for fans, players, and staff of Aston Villa Football Club...and wider!"
Alongside this updated mission that includes the wider community beyond Aston Villa, we're launching a new Villa & Proud Community Fund, that will help support local LGBTQ+ groups, projects and charities. The Community Fund will donate to charities and causes shortlisted and voted for by Villa & Proud members. We'll be providing more details on this very soon!
We also have many more exciting plans and announcements as we look ahead to 2025. We can't wait to share these, with the help, support and input of our fabulous members.
Villa & Proud doesn't just represent our members, we are our members. We couldn't achieve any of this without your hard work and dedication.
Here's to the next year of Villa & Proud, and beyond!
The Villa & Proud Committee
Exciting news. I know the committee works really hard and it shows in how far V&P has come in such a short time. Thank you