Show Racism and Bigotry The Red Card
Posted October 18, 2012
The 2012 Show Racism the Red Card annual Fortnight of Action made a stand against both racism and sectarianism. The campaign felt that it is vital to highlight the anti-sectarian message as well as the anti-racism message at this time, especially when recent incidents have once again highlighted the problem of sectarianism within our communities.
As part of their continued support for Show Racism the Red Card all SFA clubs involved in the William Hill Scottish Cup Competition 2012 / 2013 Round Three Fixtures will take a stand against both racism and sectarianism. We have developed the ways in which the clubs are able to take action to make sure the campaigns messages are as high profile and engaging as possible.
Show Racism the Red Card has received excellent support from football clubs, football authorities and football fans the length and breadth of Scotland and we would like to thank you for this. It has not been without its challenges though and we urge fans to continue to support the anti-racism and anti-sectarianism messages. We have heard of many instances where real supporters are proactive in promoting the anti-racism and anti-sectarianism messages in and around their club, making it clear that racist / sectarian fans are not welcome at their club.
The campaign will continue to speak to all football clubs, the football authorities and the police aiming to eradicate all forms of racist and sectarian behaviour.
The SFA and its clubs deplore all forms of racism and sectarianism and any racist or sectarian behaviour will not be tolerated at their fixtures.
This year the campaign has developed partnerships with local authorities to deliver educational workshops combined with football coaching sessions in a number of regions. The workshops are delivered by a dedicated team of ex-professional footballers and they are a very positive method of educating our young people about the negative impact racism and sectarianism have on Scottish society.
Here’s a brief outline of what took place during the Fortnight of Action this year:
• Anti-racist / anti-sectarian football festivals and projects across Scotland.
• Show Racism the Red Card actions at Clydesdale Bank Premier League, Scottish Football League, Scottish Women’s Premier League, Scottish Women’s Football League, and Scottish Cup 3rd round fixtures.
• ‘Unite Against Racism’ actions at UEFA Champions League fixtures.
• Educational workshops in schools, community groups and at grassroots football clubs across Scotland.
Football is a sport that is followed by people across the world, and football matches should be an enjoyable experience for all, whatever their racial or religious background. We all have a part to play in stamping out racism and sectarianism in football and society.
If you see or hear racism or sectarianism at any level of football, please report it to stewards or police. Our website also includes updates on Fortnight of Action events and more information on the “Show Racism the Red Card” campaign in Scotland.
Show your support for tackling racism and sectarianism: