Race Equality

The word ‘race’ originally meant ‘family’. Later, it was used more loosely for national groups such as a French or German race. In the nineteenth century, with the various theories of mans origin, scientists took it over to describe the 'races of Man': groups defined by their physical differences from one another, such as skin colour, hair type, body shape and so on. These scientists were European and as they attempted to categorise the ‘races’ they naturally categorised themselves as superior and regarded ‘race’ as a determinant of character. Unfortunately this influence of racial theories on politics, popular fiction and journalism lasted well into the twentieth century. South Africa’s apartheid policies, the USA southern states as well as national quotas for immigration all had their roots in these theories. The placing of ‘races’ in order from superior to inferior, with a system for identifying characteristics, served to perpetuate the standing of certain groups worldwide. These scientists may have been respected thinkers but they fed prejudice and racial discrimination.- which arises when a person or group is treated leas favourably than another in similar circumstances 'on racial grounds'. (Race Relations Act 1976). The Race Relations Act (UK) makes it unlawful to discriminate against anyone on grounds of race, colour, nationality, or ethnic or national origin.

The term used to describe groups from different ethnic backgrounds is Ethnic Minorities. Ethnic minorities make up less than 15% of the total population in England, (but percentage will differ depending on the Country). Many of these minority groups participate in a full and rich football community, however some do not and we must start to question why they do not participate and what can we do to make football accessible for all who want to play. Racism can be best described as negative discrimination against an individual because of their colour, racial origin, ethnicity, ancestry, or place of birth.

Racist abuse has long plagued football, it was prominent in the early part of the 20th century and took a concerted effort over the last 25 years to eradicate it from the terraces. In order to eradicate racism from football, each club will have to ensure that they maintain an environment that is free of any form of racial abuse. Members of ethnic communities would certainly not want to play for teams where they were made to feel unwanted and disrespected through racist comments. It is not acceptable in society and must not be tolerated in football. It is every club’s responsibility to take action against racism and to create an environment where racism is unacceptable and where participants found guilty are brought to task. Club’s can take a range of steps to educate both their players and parents/ carers to help create a positive environment that promotes and celebrates diversity.

Unfortunately there still remain people who feel they can discriminate against others because of their race or ethnic background. Research shows that black and ethnic minority (BME) people are less likely to take part in sport at all levels than white people. In many sports, individuals from particular minority ethnic backgrounds are consistently not represented at the elite level. Racist chanting and abuse is becoming increasingly evident in a number of spectator sports that dominate the media. As a result, sports’ ruling bodies, such as UEFA and FIFA, have become increasingly vocal about their commitment to tackling this abhorrent and unacceptable behaviour.
People often argue that racism is here for ever so it’s pointless trying to change it now. Well for 19th Century scientists cholera, polio, and ‘consumption’ were considered to with us for ever and to even imagine a man on the moon, flight, mobile phones, computers and anti biotic medicine would have also been considered fanciful. We have to set the example at our youth levels to address this sad side of football and with consistent approaches and continued education people can be encouraged to recognise evils of racism.

What should our club be doing to ensure we target Racism?

• Have an Anti Racist club Policy.
• Recognise that many of our players come from different backgrounds and cultures.
• Ensure your club is open and accessible for people of all backgrounds.
• Challenge your players or parents if there are any inappropriate behaviours, discrimination, or poor practices towards such players or their families.
• Take steps to become more familiar with the Cultural or Religious backgrounds of current and potential club members.
• Structure your training sessions so that you include fully all members of your squad.