The Rhinos will also be joined by stars from Yorkshire soap Emmerdale, which has featured a number of hard-hitting storylines about tackling homophobia. The soap stars will take to the pitch at half-time and a specially-commissioned Leeds Rhinos LGBT polo shirt will also be available to purchase through the Leeds Rhinos club shop and online at www.therhinos.co.uk/store
Rugby league has lead on this issue, including the Rugby Football League's launching a game-wide 'Tackle IT!' Equality and Diversity programme, which aims to increase awareness of issues such as racism, homophobia and other forms of discrimination and prejudice within Rugby League. The RFL has been named in the Stonewall Top 100 Employers Index for a second successive year, rising 40 places in its second appearance to be named in 53rd position.
Mulholland has previous hosted a Parliamentary reception alongside the Rugby Football League, showcasing the inclusive nature of rugby league. The event was supported by MPs from all parties, and was attended by players from the Sheffield Eagles and Equalities Minister Lynne Featherstone MP.
Greg commented: "I have long supported the campaign to bring an end to homophobic bullying and victimisation in all sports, and I am delighted that Leeds Rhinos are taking a lead on this issue during their game this evening with Widnes.
"With so few openly gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender people involved in sports at the highest level, it is important to ensure that we do all that we can to make sure that the sports field is a welcoming place for all- irrespective of their sexuality or gender.
"Rugby league really has been leading on this issue, launching initiatives such as 'Tackle IT!', which aims to increase awareness of issues such as racism, homophobia and other forms of discrimination and prejudice within Rugby League.
"I hope other rugby league clubs, along with other top level sports teams, will follow the lead of the Rhinos get on board and show their support for this extremely important issue."
