Arsenal have now done something that no other Premier League side in history has, in what is a groundbreaking move.
What’s the story?
Well – according to the Belfast Telegraph – Arsenal have become the first football side in history to provide a British Sign Language service (BSL) at every home game.
The Gunners have implemented a unique initiative which sees interpreters standing pitch-side for those in the Emirates Stadium who are unable to hear what is being said over the tannoy.
It is in collaboration with the Level Playing Field charity’s Unite for Access campaign.
Vinai Venkatesham – Chief Executive Officer of Arsenal – said: “Our mission is to ensure everyone feels welcome at Arsenal.
“The introduction of BSL at Emirates Stadium has been enabled by lots of hard work from supporters and colleagues and we’ll keep pushing to ensure all our supporters, whatever their background, can experience Arsenal in an equal way.”
It is a tremendous initiative from Arsenal, who were already one of the most inclusive clubs in football even before announcing their BSL service.
The news comes after the national anthem was also interpreted in sign language at Wembley before the Carabao Cup final between Newcastle United and Manchester United in February.
Other Premier League sides must follow Arsenal
In our view, there is no excuse for the other 19 Premier League sides to not follow in Arsenal’s footsteps.
Football is all about inclusivity and making the beautiful game accessible for all.
In truth, it is hard to believe that it has taken this long for BSL to be interpreted at a Premier League stadium, especially with the amount of money involved in the modern game.
Nevertheless, Arsenal deserve credit for stepping up – hopefully, the other 19 Premier League sides now do the same, as there is simply no reason for them not to.
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