Jordan Henderson: I wouldn’t disrespect Saudi Arabia religion and culture by wearing Rainbow Laces
ES SAYS Jordan Henderson has confirmed he would not risk disrespecting “the religion and culture in Saudi Arabia” by wearing rainbow laces or a rainbow captain’s armband.
In an extensive interview with The Athletic, the former Liverpool captain has addressed his controversial move to Al-Ettifaq. Henderson has been a vocal advocate for LGBTQ+ rights, and his move to a country which criminalises homosexuality prompted widespread criticism.
Henderson, in an interview with Liverpool’s matchday programme in October last year, said of wearing Rainbow Laces: “I have regularly worn rainbow laces and today will be no exception because this kind of visible support can only have a positive impact.
“It also sends the powerful message that football is for everyone and the more of us who can take this message back into our homes, workplaces and daily lives the better.”
Less than a year later, Henderson says he is open to promoting the same message in the Middle East but not at the risk of being disrespectful to his new fans.
“I wouldn’t rule that out,” he said. “But at the same time, what I wouldn’t do is disrespect the religion and culture in Saudi Arabia. If we’re all saying everybody can be who they want to be and everybody is inclusive, then we’ll have to respect that.
“We’ll have to respect everyone. And by doing something like that, if that did disrespect the religion, then no, I’m not going to do that. But if the opportunity comes where I can do it and it doesn’t, then yeah, because that’s my values.”
https://www.standard.co.uk/sport/football/henderson-saudi-arabia-rainbow-laces-b1104860.html