This weekend the Barça men’s and women’s teams both have big targets to aim for. Xavi Hernández’s side could secure second spot in La Liga from their game at Getafe, while Jonatan Giráldez’s side are looking to end their season with a perfect record of 30 wins in 30 games.

But they will also be playing against LGTBI-phobia by wearing the violet coloured second strip. Barça are doing so in support of the International Day Against LGTBI-phobia on May 17 as part of European Diversity Month.

This activity is being organised through the club’s Diversity and Inclusion Department, which has been organising a series of activities this month to support social awareness and build a more diverse club, fostering inclusive communication, recognition of diversity in all forms (gender, sexual orientation, functional diversity and cultural) and taking a stand against discrimination. During European Diversity Month, the club has held a series of workshops, talks and inclusive sports events both in public and internally.

This season’s second strip was specifically designed to send out a message in support of female empowerment. Violet was chosen because it is a blend of the red and blue that popularly represents the fight for gender equality, and also includes a topical reference to the club anthem (“totes unides fem força”/”together we make strength”), as well as the inclusion of the colours of the LGTBI rainbow flag.