February marks Football v Homophobia Month, a campaign that brings clubs and supporters together to challenge discrimination and promote inclusion across the game.
At St Johnstone, that message is embodied by the Proud Saintees – the club’s first LGBTQ+ supporters’ group – who are helping ensure McDiarmid Park remains a home for all.
Formed by supporters with a shared love of Saints, the Proud Saintees were created with a simple aim: visibility, community and inclusion within the club they have always backed.
“It all started last year when it was Football v Homophobia month. I started to wonder if there was anything on the go at St Johnstone,” founder Iain Smith explained.
“I looked into it and got some information from other Scottish clubs and it all started from there really.
“We are very much a fledging group at the moment; we are really looking for more members to come forward and join us.
“Our primary purpose is to encourage as many LGBTQ+ supporters along to Saints matches as possible. The club has been so supportive of us on our journey so far and it is now about us taking the next step.”
Football v Homophobia Month is a campaign that highlights the ongoing work needed to tackle discrimination in the game. While attitudes in football continue to evolve, the group believes visibility still matters.
Iain continued: “Worryingly, there has been signs of homophobia at football matches in the UK in recent times. This month is all about highlighting that football is for all.
“Both the club and Saints in the Community have been so supportive since day one and the St Johnstone Fans’ Forum too. We have had loads of positive messages on our social media channels.
“At the moment, we need to turn that support into people coming along to help get the organisation going.
“Again, we really appreciate the club helping to spread this message this month.”
For members, their passion for St Johnstone runs deep. Talk quickly turns to favourite moments – cup triumphs, big European nights and unforgettable away days.
“The big European games always stand out for me,” Iain said. “The matches against Hamburg especially in 1971.
“Obviously the recent cup finals too. During Covid we all wanted to be there in person, but lifting some silverware during that time was special.
“I am sure there are some more big moments to come supporting St Johnstone and I look forward to the Proud Saintees being a part of that.”
Looking ahead, the Proud Saintees hope to continue growing, meeting fellow fans and supporting the team through every high and low.
“My message to supporters would firstly be that this is a safe and confidential space. Things would only go public if you wish them to be so,” Iain said.
“If you are feeling nervous or anxious about coming along to games, please get in touch. At Proud Saintees we want to make it easier for supporters to come along to games.
“You can sign up to our social media channels to keep tabs on our upcoming events too.”
You can find the Proud Saintees on social media HERE.
