Show Racism The Red Card
Friday 24th October 2008
Welcome to Show Racism The Red Card’s Fortnight of Action, 16 - 30 October 2008. Before kick off this weekend, clubs playing at every IRN-BRU Scottish Football League and Scottish Cup ties, will be united in calling for an end to racism 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 would like to thank you for the excellent support the campaign has had since we set up office in Scotland five years ago. That support is producing real results including a significant decrease in the number of incidents of racial abuse reported at Scottish football stadia over the years. We have heard of many instances where real supporters have turned on racist fans making it clear that they are not welcome at their club. Various Supporters Trusts have also been instrumental in spreading our anti racism message throughout the game. In society, racism is sadly on the increase. Scottish Government statistics indicate that there are on average 14 recorded racist incidents a day. The Commission for Racial Equality estimate the true number to be five times this figure. We must all work together to ensure that the mindless minority who engage in racist practices, realise their behaviour is not acceptable in football or in society.
The SFL and its Clubs deplore all forms of racist behaviour. Any racist behaviour will not be tolerated at IRN-BRU Scottish Football League fixtures.
David Longmuir, Chief Executive of the Scottish Football League says "The SFL is rooted in its community ethos and that means more than just the local community. Scottish football clubs can and do play an important role in bringing people together, regardless of colour, race or creed. The SFL is firmly committed to supporting Show Racism The Red Card, and our ultimate aim is that clubs, players and fans unite to ensure that racism of any kind has no place in our football family."
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 hope you enjoy the game today and ask you to support the players’ action before kick- off. We all have a part to play in showing racism the red card.
If you see or hear racism at any level of football, please report it to stewards or police, and record the complaint at www.theredcardscotland.org. Our web site also includes updates on Fortnight of Action events and more information on the "Red Card" campaign in Scotland.
Partick Thistle FC supports Show Racism The Red Card 100%.
