Breaking Barriers: England Lionesses to Inspire Change with Striking Armbands in Women's World Cup 2023

England has made a collective decision to increase awareness for multiple causes by wearing a unique armband during each match of the FIFA Women's World Cup.

Following FIFA's announcement that the 'One Love' armband would not be allowed at the upcoming tournament in Australia and New Zealand, the global governing body for football has sanctioned players to advocate for eight different alternative causes.

The Lionesses have pledged to bring attention to different causes during each matchday they play. They will begin by wearing the 'Unite for Inclusion' armband in their World Cup opener against Haiti in Brisbane on Saturday. In their second Group D game against Denmark in Sydney on July 28, Sarina Wiegman's team will don the 'Unite for Indigenous People' armband. Finally, when they take on China in Adelaide on August 1, they will wear the 'Unite for Gender Equality' armband.

In the event that England advances to the knockout stages, they will don the 'Unite for Peace' armbands for the round-of-16, followed by the 'Unite for Education for All' armbands for the quarter-finals, the 'United for Zero Hunger' armbands for the semi-finals, and finally the 'Unite for Ending Violence against Women' armbands. England defender Millie Bright expressed the team's unanimous decision to embrace FIFA's proposal, citing their deep conviction in the significance of each cause and their collective support for all of them.

We recently reached a decision after careful consideration and collective discussion. As a team, consisting of both staff and players, we strongly prioritize supporting Indigenous People. When coming to this country, our intention is to show respect for the past, present, and future. While acknowledging historical challenges, our focus is on progressing together and making a positive impact on the world, a value we consistently uphold.

Yesterday, we had the privilege of engaging in a conversation and gaining knowledge about Indigenous People and their rich culture.

During this enlightening experience, we were fortunate enough to partake in two meaningful ceremonies. These encounters allowed us to deepen our understanding and appreciation for the Aboriginal People and the myriad aspects intertwined within their culture. It is truly incredible to have had this unique opportunity, and we feel deeply honored.

"As a united team, we are deeply aware of our values, beliefs, and the transformation we strive to achieve. Therefore, irrespective of wearing an armband, we firmly believe that our actions and principles exemplify everything we stand for and believe in."

The 'One Love' armband sparked controversy in last year's men's World Cup in Qatar. England and six other participating nations initially planned to wear it throughout the tournament, but eventually withdrew due to fears of FIFA imposing sanctions on the players.

Players and teams participating in this year's World Cup will have the freedom to advocate for social causes of their choice at their respective training venues and before or after matches. However, any on-pitch messages that do not comply with FIFA regulations will result in penalties. Prior to the Women's World Cup in July, FIFA reaffirmed its position and provided eight approved alternatives for promoting social causes. It is worth noting that none of these alternatives include any mention of LGBTQ+ rights.

The FIFA 'unite for inclusion' band's colors do not represent the rainbow or LGBT pride flag. Instead, they symbolize race and heritage (red/black/green) as well as all gender identities and sexual orientations (pink/yellow/blue).