RESPECT. Community. Understanding.
These are just some of the powerful words that don Melbourne’s 2024 AFLW Pride guernsey.
The guernsey, the Dees fourth since its inaugural pride jumper in 2022, represents the club’s journey towards inclusion, and commitment to providing a safe environment for members of the LGBTQIA+ community.
The design retains its famous Melbourne chevron but with several words featuring along the traditional ‘V’. The words adorning the jumper, such as safety, empowerment and support, were captured by players, coaches and staff following an education session run by organisation Minus18.
Minus18 focuses on creating an Australia where all young people are safe and empowered in environments that support them. Their key work includes education through training, workshops and resourcing in addition to life-affirming programs that follow a preventive model of mental health support for LGBTQIA+ youth.
The jumper also incorporates the colours of the Progress Pride Flag across the neckline, an important symbol within the LGBTQIA+ space representing all those within the community.
The AFLW Pride Round will take place during Week 7 of the 2024 competition, with Melbourne set to face Adelaide and St Kilda.
The round looks to celebrate the inclusivity, diversity, growth and acceptance of the AFLW competition and is a step forward to ensuring that football is a game that is safe for all.
Dees fans can purchase the 2024 Pride guernsey at the Demon Shop HERE.
