SEATTLE - The World Cup match between Egypt and Iran on Friday has been designated a 'Pride Match' by local organizers, despite both nations criminalizing homosexuality. Seattle, known for its welcoming atmosphere and year-round Pride flags, will host the game during its 50-year-old Pride weekend celebration.
Local organizers insist the event will proceed as planned. 'The World Cup is going to come and go in three weeks. The Pride celebration has happened on this weekend for 50-plus years. It is going to happen this weekend, it is going to happen long after the World Cup,' said Hedda McLendon from Seattle's organizing committee.
Members of the city's LGBTQ community see an opportunity for social change, citing the global reach of sports. 'International sports is one of the biggest brokers historically of social change and individual rights and freedoms worldwide,' said Jon Cairns, a club manager, pointing to Jesse Owens' Olympic triumphs and 1968 protests.
Some acknowledge mixed feelings, but many believe the visibility could reach audiences in countries where state television airs the matches. 'They're not going to turn off the World Cup on state television in Iran or Egypt to block out a Pride flag in the audience,' Cairns added.
FIFA confirmed the Pride Match is a host city initiative, separate from its own events. Ryan Webster, a lifestyle manager, said the match offers a chance to show solidarity. Drag performer Venus Fengz noted that sharing space with people from different backgrounds is 'always great ... Sometimes you just have to be the bigger person and show grace.'