Bristol Bears is proud to announce its new strategic relationship with Bristol Bisons RFC – the South West’s first inclusive and queer friendly rugby team based in Bristol – ahead of Premiership Rugby’s Pride Weekend (26th-28th January 2024).
As part of our commitment to diversity and inclusivity, the club will now look to collaborate with the Bisons on several community initiatives. This new relationship follows on from the launch of our new Supporter Advisory Committee, Bears Together, setup to work alongside the Club with the primary purpose of providing our supporters with a voice to allow them to engage in ‘off-field’ matters.
And the Bears’ work with the Bisons kicks off at this weekend’s derby showdown with Bath at Ashton Gate, which will include representatives from the club taking part in several events, including the pre-match Q&A at the Bears Den alongside first team players and matchday presenter Downsy.
Gallagher Premiership Round 12 has been reimagined in a celebration of the LGBTQ+ community, promoting inclusivity and showing that every player, referee, coach, volunteer, official, club employee or supporter from the LGBTQ+ community is welcome, no matter their background or identity.
Daisie Mayes, Bristol Bears Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) lead, said: “The club is really invested in promoting an inclusive culture, ensuring that everyone in our community feels a part of the Bears family.
“This relationship with the Bisons is a beacon for supporters in the LGBTQ+ community, giving them a safe and welcoming environment at Bears men’s, women’s and Academy matchdays.”
Jamie White, Bristol Bisons Chairperson, said: “It’s incredible to be officially partnering up with the Bears ahead of Premiership Rugby’s Pride Weekend.
“Rugby truly is a sport for everyone, and we can’t wait to see what exciting things we can achieve together in the future. The Bisons are just one of over hundred inclusive global rugby clubs that are part of the IGR (International Gay Rugby) community, and this acknowledgement from the Bears is a real mark of support from our Premiership home team.
“We hope that by working together, we can continue to highlight the importance of inclusive rugby and inspire people to find their own safe space in the sport.”
