RANGERS were honoured to attend the Unity is Strength event last weekend, hosted by the Liverpool FC Foundation and the Hillsborough Survivors Support Alliance (HSA), alongside representatives from Manchester United, Liverpool, and Sheffield Wednesday.
Held at Liverpool’s AXA Training Centre, the event brought together clubs, families, campaigners, and fans to promote respect, remembrance, and solidarity in the face of tragedy-related abuse, an issue that continues to cast a shadow over the game.
The day featured a workshop titled Football and the Scourge of Tragedy Chanting, led by the HSA, where stories were shared by those directly affected.
The session offered a sobering look at the impact of this behaviour and highlighted the opportunity for clubs and supporters to lead meaningful change.
Rangers were represented by staff from the club and the Rangers Charity Foundation, as well as family members affected by the 1971 Ibrox Disaster.
“To be here, to share experiences with clubs like Liverpool, Manchester United, and Sheffield Wednesday, and to learn from each other has been inspiring and really valuable as we look at how to move forward”, said Head of Supporter Engagement, Greg Marshall.
Greig Mailer, Chief Communications & Marketing Officer said: “We saw the best of football fans coming together at the event. Respecting each other, sharing their own perspectives and setting an example for us all.
“The event was a reminder that football has the ability to heal. Sport has such a powerful impact on communities to bring them together through good times and bad, and I think that's the one message that we all can take from the Unity is Strength event.”
The Rangers delegation also joined participants from across the UK in observing a minute’s silence in memory of those lost, including the recent passing of Diego Jota and his brother André Silva, before travelling to Anfield to pay their respects.
Alongside the workshop, a walking football tournament was organised for participants. Representing Rangers, members of the Rangers FC Foundation walking football programme played, going on to win the competition.
“At 47, to put on a Rangers jersey and compete was quite emotional” said Sarra Smith.
“I played football a long time ago and I didn’t think I’d be back to play this kind of football. The impact it has on your mental health, it gives you so much.”
The Rangers Charity Foundation’s walking football sessions at the Ibrox Community Complex continue to grow, offering players of all backgrounds the chance to stay active, make new friends, and feel part of the wider Rangers family. Click here for more information.
Rangers FC extends sincere thanks to the Liverpool FC Foundation, the Hillsborough Survivors Support Alliance, and all organisers and participants who made the event so impactful.
We were proud to stand alongside other clubs in taking a united stance against tragedy chanting.
As part of our ongoing commitment to honouring the legacy of the Ibrox Disasters, we invite anyone affected, whether family members, survivors, or those otherwise connected to register their interest in being involved in future remembrance events.
The club is also keen to hear from those who wish to help shape how we commemorate the tragedies going forward.
To express your interest, please contact the club directly at [email protected].