Pride Round will be celebrated throughout the league in round ten when the Bombers take on Gold Coast in Mackay.
In recognition of the Purple Bombers, Essendon's official diversity and inclusion supporter group and designer of the guernsey, the club will also wear their Pride Guernsey in front of a home crowd for their round nine clash against Carlton at Windy Hill.
Established in 2014, the Purple Bombers have been working closely with the club to assist them in being leaders of change by creating a safe environment for LGBTQIA+ supporters and players while promoting diversity and inclusion within the wider football community.
About this year's guernsey
President of the Purple Bombers Tess Gilfedder is excited to unveil this year's guernsey, which features the pride flag in place of the iconic Bombers sash to celebrate the LGBTQIA+ community.
The Pride Progress Flag has been chosen rather than the classic rainbow flag people may be more familiar with.
"We wear the red sash with pride, so it's fitting that for Pride Round, we use the sash to celebrate our LGBTQIA+ community," Gilfedder said.
"This flag includes groups who have sometimes been underrepresented in pride celebrations - transgender, intersex and LGBTQIA+ people of colour."
About the importance of the round
"It's important that all supporters feel safe and welcome at the footy," Gilfedder said.
"Pride round is an opportunity to let our LGBTQIA+ community know that they are not only welcomed but celebrated while also sending a message to the wider community that Essendon is committed to inclusion and acceptance."
Essendon supporters are all welcome, regardless of our gender identity or sexuality.
Pride Round is an important part of creating an inclusive environment where individuals feel safe expressing themselves.
