Welcome to Show Racism the Red Card’s annual Fortnight of Action.
Many of you will have seen the campaign within football for many years, the SFA, SPFL, SJFA and its member clubs have been supporting the campaign since it started in Scotland.
In addition to increasing the awareness of SRtRC’s work in Scotland, the Fortnight of Action from 6th – 20th October shows commitment at the highest level of Scottish football to eradicate racism and discrimination of any form from our game.
We believe that it is vital to highlight the anti-racism message at this time of year as it runs alongside Football Against Racism in Europe’s (FARE) Football People Weeks.
All professional clubs will show their support over one weekend on Friday 14th October and Saturday 15th October. Clubs will be united in calling for an end to racism in football and society. Players in over 40 European Countries are involved in similar events as part of FARE network against racism and discrimination.
Show Racism the Red Card has received excellent support from football clubs, football authorities and football fans the length and breadth of Scotland – we would like to take this opportunity to thank you all. We have heard of many instances where supporters have been proactive in promoting the anti-racism message, making it clear that racism and discrimination are not welcome at their club. We urge fans to continue to support the anti-racism message; it is the responsibility of us all to ensure that it is carried out beyond the Fortnight of Action and beyond the terraces.
Neil Doncaster, Chief Executive of the SPFL said “Football is a powerful medium to break down barriers and promote tolerance. Our clubs have supported Show Racism the Red Card since season 2003/04 and once again, this united action in support of the campaign sends out the positive message that football is a game to be enjoyed by all.”
As the Fortnight of Action Ambassador, on behalf of Arbroath FC we are delighted to once again be participating and showing our support for the Show Racism the Red Card campaign. Racism is extremely negative and can take many forms within society today including verbal and non verbal abuse as well as physical assault to individuals or property. People should not be discriminated against because of their nationality, culture, religion or skin colour and Show Racism the Red Card plays an important part in helping raise awareness of the issues out there. Football in Scotland has had an association with this campaign for many years now and as players and the focal point of attention during a match, we can deliver a clear message to a wide audience that racism should not be tolerated in society.
All the best – Mark Whatley, Captain and Fortnight of Action Ambassador, Arbroath FC
The campaign will continue to speak to all football clubs, the football authorities and the police to eradicate all forms of racist behaviour.
The SPFL, SJFA and its clubs deplore all forms of racism and any racist behaviour will not be tolerated at SPFL or SJFA matches.
Over the past year Show Racism the Red Card has faced major funding difficulties but we strive to continue our work. We are working with grassroots football, community groups, schools, the police and prison service to ensure that going forward Scottish society and Scottish football is fair and inclusive for all.
Football is a sport that is followed by people across the world and football matches should be an enjoyable experience for all, whatever their background. We all have a part to play in challenging racism in football and society.
Show your support for tackling racism:
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