Corporate Social Responsibility Club Saturday 17 May 2025 à 12h30

AS Saint-Étienne stands against homophobia

In line with its strong civic commitment, AS Saint-Étienne is working towards a more inclusive society and is once again highlighting the International Day against LGBTQ+ phobias.

The challenges of inclusion faced by LGBTQIA+ individuals in society concern us all. For several years now, AS Saint-Étienne and its foundation ASSE Cœur-Vert have been committed to driving progress in this area. On this Saturday, May 17, the International Day Against LGBTQIA+ Discrimination, the club highlights its ongoing efforts to shift perceptions and promote greater acceptance among its audiences.

Meeting with Ouissem Belgacem

At 37, Ouissem Belgacem, a former youth player at Toulouse FC, experienced the life of a young footballer aspiring to turn professional while concealing his homosexuality. After abandoning his dream, he published an autobiography titled Adieu ma honte in 2021, along with a documentary series of the same name, embracing his identity and aiming to address homophobia in sports.

In April, the former Tunisian U17 international engaged in a candid discussion with AS Saint-Étienne's men's professional team, sharing his journey, including his childhood, the realization of his sexual orientation, the period he concealed it, his attempts to change, and eventually his acceptance. He also held a two-hour session with the club's academy players, fostering open dialogue that encouraged questions and shifts in perspective.

Workshops at the training center

Each year, the FACE à FACE association, in partnership with ASSE Cœur-Vert, meets with young male and female players to raise awareness about the issues faced by the LGBTQIA+ community. These valuable discussions create a space for open dialogue and promote greater open-mindedness.

This year, in addition to the players, a certified speaker will also meet with the coaches of the AS Saint-Étienne Training Center.

A symbolic double badge on the jerseys

AS Saint-Étienne is proudly taking part in the initiative against homophobia launched by the French Professional Football League during the final matchday of Ligue 1 McDonald’s, as the Greens face Toulouse. On Saturday evening, Eirik Horneland’s players will wear on their right sleeve the official league badge redesigned with rainbow colors, along with the “Homophobia Football” patch.

To accompany these jerseys — three of which will be auctioned after the match — visibility at the Geoffroy-Guichard stadium will be deployed during the pre-match, on the pitch, and on LED boards.

While there is still much work to be done, AS Saint-Étienne and its ASSE Cœur-Vert foundation remain committed to promoting an empathetic, tolerant, and inclusive society.