Show Racism and Bigotry the Red Card - Fortnight of Action
Welcome to Show Racism the Red Card’s annual Fortnight of Action. The 2011 Fortnight of Action will, for the first time ever, make a stand against both racism and sectarianism. We believe 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 we are launching the first joint Show Racism and Bigotry the Red Card Fortnight of Action, all professional clubs will take a stand against both racism and sectarianism at a home game during the fortnight. We have developed the ways in which the clubs are able to take action to make it the biggest and most high profile fortnight so far.
At every Irn-Bru Scottish Football League fixtures and Scottish Cup ties this weekend clubs will be united in calling for an end to racism and sectarianism in football and in society. Players in over 40 European countries are involved in similar events as part of the Football Against Racism in Europe (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 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-racist and anti-sectarian messages. We have heard of many instances where real supporters have turned on racist / sectarian fans making it clear that they are not welcome at their club.
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The campaign will continue to speak to all football clubs, the football authorities and the police to eradicate all forms of racist and sectarian behaviour.
The SFL and its clubs deplore all forms of racism and sectarianism and any racist or sectarian behaviour will not be tolerated at Irn-Bru Scottish Football League and Scottish Cup 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’s taking place during the Fortnight of Action this year:
• Anti-racist / anti-sectarian football festivals and projects in Edinburgh, Glasgow, Glenrothes, Falkirk, Inverness, South Ayrshire
• Show Racism the Red Card actions at SPL, SFL, SWPL, SWFL, and Scottish Cup matches.
• ‘Unite Against Racism’ actions at UEFA Champions League fixtures.
• Educational workshops in schools and community groups 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:
Follow us on twitter: @SRtRCScotland
Like us on Facebook: facebook.com/theRedCardScotland
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