The AFL industry is calling on fans to take the pledge to never use homophobic language and stand up to those who do.

It’s part of a player-driven social media campaign targeted at tackling homophobia and promoting inclusion in the lead up to IDAHO, International Day Against Homophobia, this Saturday.

IDAHO commemorates the day homosexuality was removed from the International Classification of Diseases of the World Health Organisation in 1990.

Carlton midfielder Brock McLean says the #IDAHO campaign is something everyone should support regardless of whether or not they have a direct link with the GLBTI community.

“It just appeals to a common sense that everyone should feel safe and included, and that sport should be for everyone,” McLean said.

“It gets back to basic human rights. Everyone has a right to be treated equally.”

Players’ Association Acting CEO Ian Prendergast said players feel strongly about the issue.

“There’s no room in our game for vilification of any form, and this extends beyond the playing field and into everyday life,” Prendergast said.

“Footy is for everyone, and it’s really important that people involved in the game, from a grassroots level up to the elite level, never lose sight of that.”

Football fans are encouraged to join sharing the message via social media, to help raise awareness of the damaging impact homophobic language can have within our society.

To find out more about the campaign and to view the gallery of players involved visit aflplayers.com.au.