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The latest NFL franchise to jump on the bandwagon supporting a new LGBTQ+ flag football team is the Buffalo Bills, announcing they are “thrilled” at the sponsorship.

The launch of a Buffalo chapter of the National Gay Flag Football League was celebrated by the NFL team in a news release Tuesday announcing that the Buffalo Bills will be supplying the sponsorship and making Buffalo the 28th city in the nation with an NGFFL team.

“We are thrilled to bring inclusive flag football to Buffalo with the support of the Buffalo Bills. This exciting addition joins 27 other cities, and over 4,000 players, including straight allies, in the National Gay Flag Football League,” NGFFL Commissioner Joel Horton said in a statement.

The “game-changer” collaboration is the latest in a string of similar NFL team support of the NGFFL including from the Chicago Bears, Arizona Cardinals, New York Giants, New York Jets, Washington Commanders, and more.

“Our mission is to unite the community through the spirit of competition while celebrating our diversity. By fostering an environment where everyone is welcome, we aim to build a stronger, more inclusive Buffalo. Together, with the backing of the Buffalo Bills, we are creating a space where all individuals can participate, compete, and thrive,” Horton said.

The National Gay Flag Football League, a nonprofit sports organization founded in 2002, says its mission “is to build an inclusive and empowering community through celebrating diversity, athleticism, and sportsmanship.”

“We provide a safe space for individuals of all backgrounds to share their passion for flag football, promoting equality both on and off the field,” the website states. “Our league breaks down barriers, challenges stereotypes, and fosters an environment where everyone feels valued. Through sports, we empower individuals, foster connections, and contribute to LGBTQ+ rights.”

Michelle Roberts, Buffalo Bills vice president of Community Impact, expressed excitement over the impact of the sponsorship.

“We are excited to join the NFL and other Clubs across the league in their support of the NGFFL,”  she said. “Through our sponsorship, we are looking forward to expanding the impact of the NGFFL in our community.”

In an Instagram post last year, the NFL declared it “is proud to work with the National Gay Flag Football League to promote respect and acceptance for all, and to grow the game of football at every level.”

Jonathan Beane, NFL senior vice president and chief diversity & inclusion officer, gushed about the league’s “unwavering support of the LGBTQ community” in a press release earlier this year.

“Our Third Annual A Night of Pride with GLAAD is yet another strong step to accelerating acceptance and demonstrating the NFL’s unwavering support of the LGBTQ community,” Beane said at the time.

The reaction on social media was about what was expected:

Frieda Powers
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