EQUALITY campaigners have hailed Glasgow's Commonwealth Games as setting a new benchmark on inclusion.
The team behind Glasgow 2014 were praised for ensuring that lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and intersex (LGBTI) issues were at the heart of the Games, from the moment John Barrowman kissed another man during the opening ceremony.
Pride House Glasgow has welcomed around 6,000 people through its doors over the course of the Games - including athletes and celebrities - and the Equality Network said the flying of rainbow flags had ensured the visibility of LGBTI people.
Scott Cuthbertson, community development co-ordinator for the Equality Network, said: "In no previous games has the visibility and inclusion of LGBTI people been so high.
"From the new 'Glasgow kiss', leadership on LGBTI issues from the top of the Scottish Government, and rainbow flags being flown across Scotland, to opportunities to talk about the Commonwealth human rights record on LGBTI equality, the Glasgow 2014 games have set a standard for LGBTI visibility and inclusiveness which we hope future games will build upon.
"There is much to be done by the Commonwealth Secretariat and member countries to ensure human rights for LGBTI people across the globe, and we hope the Glasgow 2014 Games will be seen as part of a movement for positive change."
David Grevemberg, chief executive of Glasgow 2014, said: "We have sought to use the power of the Games to change attitudes by celebrating diversity in everything we do, including the Opening Ceremony, and by delivering a truly inclusive sports programme. Pride House Glasgow has been a wonderful addition to the city and to the spirit of celebration surrounding the Games and it has been a privilege to have them as both our partners and our neighbours."
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