Footballer Kashia to receive an award for supporting LGBT community
What's the story
Georgia football team captain, Guram Kashia is set to receive the #EqualGame award for supporting LGBT community. Back in October, last year, while playing for Dutch club Vitesse, Kashia wore a rainbow colored captain's armband. This, in turn, saw anti-LGBT community hit back with fierce criticism. The UEFA has decided to award the courageous defender for standing up and promoting equality.
Reaction
Kashia faced threats and abuses in Georgia for wearing armband
The 31-year-old was subjected to immense threat and retaliation in his nation. The anti-LGBT protesters reacted in a violent manner with riots, smoke bombs and flares. One Georgian columnist had also called for him to be thrown out of the Georgia national team. He faced constant threats and abuse, but chose to remain defiant during this situation.
UEFA
UEFA praises Kashia's efforts in promoting equality overall
Kashia will now be the first ever recipient of the #EqualGame award. The award recognizes the ones who play a prominent part in "promoting diversity, inclusion and accessibility in European football". According to the BBC, UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin said, "Guram has taken an important stand to support the LGBT community and equality overall and deserves to win this award."
Thoughts
Kashia has never had regrets wearing rainbow armband
Kashia now plies his trades for MLS side San Jose Earthquakes. He will be awarded at the UEFA Champions League group stage draw and gala in Monaco next Thursday. The player has stated that he has never regretted wearing the rainbow armband, despite all the backlash he received. He also added that he is honored to have been picked for such an award.
Twitter Post
Guram Kashia believes in equality
#WednesdayWisdom 🙏 pic.twitter.com/2FCD8j3RL4
— San Jose Earthquakes (@SJEarthquakes) August 22, 2018