RANGERS were proud to join clubs and charities from across the UK last weekend for the second annual Unity is Strength event, reaffirming a shared commitment to challenge tragedy-related abuse in football through education, dialogue and community engagement.
Hosted by the Liverpool FC Foundation in partnership with the Hillsborough Survivors Support Alliance at the AXA Training Centre, the event brought together representatives from Rangers, Liverpool, Manchester United and Burnley, alongside campaigners, families and supporters whose lives have been directly affected by football tragedies.
Building on the success of last year's inaugural event, the day focused on promoting respect, remembrance and solidarity, while exploring how football can continue to tackle tragedy-related abuse.
The event began with a walking football tournament and youth coaching sessions. Rangers were represented by participants from the Rangers Charity Foundation's walking football programme, while club ambassador John Brown joined former Liverpool players David Fairclough, Natasha Dowie and Becky Easton in supporting the coaching activities.
Participants then took part in an educational workshop led by the Hillsborough Survivors Support Alliance, where those directly affected by tragedy shared their personal experiences from the day, and the lasting impact that tragedy-related abuse continues to have on individuals, families and communities.
Rangers were represented by staff from across the club and the Rangers Charity Foundation, alongside family members affected by the 1971 Ibrox Disaster. Fans from the Rangers Fan Advisory Board and the Rangers Supporters Association also made the trip to Liverpool.
Chief Communications & Marketing Officer, Greig Mailer, said: "The need for initiatives like this is greater today than it was a year ago. Sadly, tragedy-related abuse remains part of our game, and that has to change.
"Education changes minds in a way that sanctions alone never can. When people hear directly from those affected, the conversation becomes very different.
"It was hugely encouraging to see clubs and fans standing together. Scottish football can embrace that same spirit and has a real opportunity to build on that through education, dialogue and lasting change."
Matt Parish, CEO of Liverpool FC Foundation, added: "This is a hugely important event, and one we're committed to building on year after year. Seeing clubs and charities from across the UK come together to stand against tragedy chanting sends a powerful message, not just to our young people, but to the whole game.
"I'd like to thank all the clubs and charities who travelled from across the UK to support the event and share their experiences."
The club extends its thanks to the Liverpool FC Foundation, the Hillsborough Survivors Support Alliance and everyone involved in delivering another impactful event.
We remain committed to ensuring the victims of the Ibrox Disaster are never forgotten. Their memory deserves dignity and respect, and the club will continue to challenge anyone who seeks to weaponise that tragedy.
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