BEFORE kick-off, players involved in all SPFL fixtures this weekend will stand together and call for an end to racism in football and society.
The annual Fortnight of Action organised by the charity Show Racism the Red Card is an opportunity for all clubs in Scotland to show their support for the year-round, anti-racist education work in schools, workplaces, grassroots and youth football clubs and the prison service.
Last year, the charity worked with around 50,000 young people. In Scotland, 81% showed increased confidence in identifying and safely challenging racism after workshops with their team of education workers and ex-pros.
In addition to raising awareness of the charity’s work in Scotland, the Fortnight of Action from 10th–25th October 2020 shows commitment at the highest level of Scottish football in eradicating racism and discrimination in all its forms from our game.
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 Rangers Football Club. We would like to thank you.
Racism can manifest itself in many different forms. Some direct and very clear; some more subtle. We call on all our supporters to continue to challenge racism and to help us ensure that the anti-racism message is carried out beyond the Fortnight of Action.
Education is the key and Rangers will support Show Racism the Red Card to ensure our future generation are equipped with the tools to challenge and eradicate racism from football and society. For useful resources and information, please visit www.theredcard.org/education.
Nathan Patterson and Calvin Bassey are Rangers’ Fortnight of Action joint-ambassadors and the young players are proud to promote the anti-racism message.
Patterson said: “It is so important that at Rangers we are committed to confronting all forms of discrimination and the club’s Everyone Anyone campaign highlights the great work being done to promote inclusion and celebrate diversity.”
Bassey added: “Since joining Rangers in the summer I have been able to see for myself what the club is doing to eradicate racism and discrimination. Everyone Anyone is a fantastic campaign and it is something we as players will always back and support along with Show Racism the Red Card.”
Neil Doncaster, Chief Executive of the SPFL, said: “For the past 17 years, Scottish clubs have consistently supported Show Racism the Red Card and its educational programmes, which have benefitted tens of thousands of people across the country.
“Now, more than ever, Scotland’s national anti-racism charity plays a valuable role in promoting tolerance and SPFL clubs are proud to support its positive and important work.”
COVID and events overseas have shone a light on the growing inequalities that some of us unfairly face. Still today, many experience this disproportionately due to the colour of their skin.
Rangers stands with everyone who has had to endure racial prejudice in all areas of their lives. We condemn all forms of racism and any racist behaviour will not be tolerated at our club.
Racism affects not just the victim, but can leave damaging effects on families, friends and entire communities. If you see, hear or experience racism at any level of football, please don’t be a bystander, report it to the police or stewards.