What a few weeks we have had. We are still recovering from it all. The announcement by the KNVB to stop wearing the OneLove captain's armbands in professional football came as a surprise to us and caused disappointment. There is still a long way to go in the world of football when it comes to sexual diversity. In fact, the situation has been getting worse rather than better lately. That is why we, and other parties actively involved in this area, believe it is necessary to draw attention to this issue now.

Fortunately, we are not alone in this. Two weeks ago, Arjen Lubach's evening show devoted considerable attention to the subject, and we certainly noticed. The specially designed captain's armband in the traditional rainbow colours, bearing the text #WatLaf, was ordered more than 3,600 times. Lubach and his editorial team are donating the entire proceeds of €14,172.74 to our foundation, “so that the John Blankenstein Foundation can quickly use the donations for their wonderful work and further increase the acceptance of LGBT people in sport,” according to producer Human Factor TV.

We greatly appreciate this gesture and it touches us deeply. We are grateful not only to Lubach and his team, but also to the people who took the trouble to order one or more captain's armbands or supported us by making a donation to us over the past few weeks. That happened a lot too. It strengthens our belief that we are not the only ones who consider this issue important. We knew that, but it is sometimes very nice to see it emphasised. It motivates us to work even harder and keep going. Until everyone can play sport freely and it no longer matters who you fall in love with. We need everyone's help: the KNVB, the clubs, administrators, managers/coaches, players, supporters, parents and volunteers. Everyone can help make a difference.

The John Blankenstein Foundation consists of a group of more than twenty volunteers. We can always use support and reinforcement! For more information, see: https://www.johnblankensteinfoundation.nl/

Board of the John Blankenstein Foundation