LOS ANGELES, Calif. – Venice Pride announced Thursday that it has launched “Gay Gridiron,” a new series of football watch parties for the 2017–18 and 2018–19 seasons designed to rally LGBTQ football fans.
The traveling series, which kicks off Sunday, Oct. 29 at The Basement Tavern in Santa Monica, is being supported by the Los Angeles Chargers.
This is the second time the team has partnered with Venice Pride.
Earlier this year the L.A. Chargers were among the first NFL teams in history to sponsor a Pride event.
“From our inception, Venice Pride has pushed the envelope in unique and impactful ways, funneling grass-roots community involvement, equality and empowerment to Angelenos across the city. The L.A. Chargers are dedicated to making all communities in L.A. feel welcome. We are thrilled to support the team’s efforts to raise visibility for the devoted LGBT football fans of L.A.,” said Grant Turck, executive director of Venice Pride.
“Equity, diversity, inclusion, and unity are fundamental to who we are as a franchise, “ said Jeffrey Pollack, special advisor to the Los Angeles Chargers. “We are proud of our partnership with Venice Pride and want all fans to feel like they are part of the team – home or away.”
Gay Gridiron’s Sunday launch – hosted by Varsity Gay League, the largest LGBT sports organization in the country – will feature a Charger Girls photo booth, team giveaways, and big screen TVs for fans to watch and cheer on the Chargers as they travel to New England to take on the Patriots. While the event is free and open to the public, a ticket is required for entry. Subsequent ‘Gridiron’ events this season will be held on November 12th and 23rd, and December 16th and 24th.
“We are proud to partner with the Chargers Organization for the launch of Gay Gridiron and together, work to raise visibility around inclusion and unity for athletes and sports fans alike here in Los Angeles,” said Kayce Brown, Venice Pride board member.
