Madrid hosts Olímpicxs to promote diversity and inclusion in sports and the workplace

Madrid proudly hosted ‘Olímpicxs: #JuguemosEnIgualdad’ (Playing With Equality), an event dedicated to championing diversity and inclusion in both sports and the professional world.

Organized by myGwork and Compete Proud, the event coincided with the International Day Against LGTBI-phobia in Sport, a day recognized annually on 19 February since 2010. This date honors Justin Fashanu, the first professional footballer to publicly come out as gay in 1990—a momentous but tragic milestone, as he later took his own life due to the discrimination he faced.

Held at The Social Hub, the gathering brought together organizations, elite athletes, and business leaders to discuss the intersection of sports, workplace equality, and LGBTQ+ representation. Serving as both a space for inspiration and action, ‘Olímpicxs: #JuguemosEnIgualdad’ aimed to foster more inclusive and discrimination-free environments in sports and corporate settings. A panel discussion featured prominent voices from the LGBTQ+ community and the world of sports, including:

• David Velduque – Filmmaker and host of Sabor a Queer.
• Gema Hassen-Bey – Paralympic athlete, medalist, and LGBTQ+ advocate.
• Javier Raya – Olympic athlete and founder of Compete Proud.
• Miguel Ángel Rodríguez – Representative of Haleon ERG.
  

Velduque emphasized the significance of the International Day Against LGTBI-phobia in Sport, recognizing Fashanu’s legacy while highlighting the need for ongoing advocacy to combat discrimination in athletics.

Olympian Javier Raya spoke about the responsibility of athletes in driving change:
"We have the power—and the duty—to share our experiences and advocate for safe, inclusive spaces, both in sports and in the corporate world."

Paralympian Gema Hassen-Bey reflected on the challenges she faced: "As a woman, a Paralympic athlete, and a member of the LGBTQ+ community, I’ve encountered many obstacles. In sports, as in life, not everyone starts from the same position. That’s why we must work together to ensure equal opportunities for all."

Miguel Ángel Rodríguez reinforced Haleon’s commitment to diversity: "We see health as sustainable, accessible, and inclusive—deeply connected to the promotion of sports. Diversity strengthens businesses, bringing fresh perspectives and allowing them to reach broader audiences."

The event was officially opened by Andrea Chao, Director of The Social Hub Madrid, who described it as "not just an event, but a declaration of principles," stressing the importance of corporate leadership in fighting discrimination.

Closing the event, Miguel Garzón, Director for Iberia and Latin America at myGwork, called on businesses and institutions to take concrete steps in fostering inclusivity through sports. He highlighted the role of corporate sponsorships in supporting LGBTQ+ athletes, clubs, and major sporting events like the Paris 2024 Olympics. "This movement starts here, but it must continue throughout the year with the support of organizations, human resources teams, and corporate leaders," Garzón stated.

Supported by Haleon’s Voltadol brand, the event demonstrated the power of collaboration between major corporations, institutions, as well as sports and business professionals in breaking down barriers and stamping out discrimination to foster true workplace equality.