Ad of the Day: Portuguese LGBTQ+ group creates Pride World Cup stadiums for Twitch streamers
Stunt provides a safe online space for streamers to play Fifa video game and support LGBTQ+ rights while also getting in the World Cup spirit.
Pride flags and colors have been banned in Qatari stadiums during the World Cup/ Image via ILGA Portugal
ILGA Portugal, the nation’s largest and oldest LGBTQ+ organization, has launched a ‘Pride Stands’ initiative that encourages Twitch streamers to use stadium backdrops featuring fans waving Pride flags as they stream Fifa video games during the World Cup.
It stands in opposition to the contentious choice of Qatar as a World Cup host, due to its discrimination against and criminalization of LGBTQ+ people. Despite organizer Fifa’s assurances that the event would be safe, many have reported experiencing discrimination, with the wearing of rainbow flags and colors banned within stadiums.
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The initiative was created in collaboration with Comon, Studio Nuts and the gaming community and features Raquel Martinho, a Portuguese, two-time Fifa e-sports champion as ambassador.
The virtual stadiums filled with color can be downloaded for free by any streamer who is looking for a space to play and celebrate the world safely, and with pride.
‘Pride Stands’ also aims to highlight the work of the Proud Maroons football team, Qatar’s first LGBTQ+ football support group. Despite the fact that they are unable to demonstrate their rainbow support to their country, they have formed a global community of LGBTQIA+ people and allies who are fighting for a more inclusive football in Qatar.