Kick It Out

Clubs and communities make united stand against racism

Europe’s biggest ever series of anti- racism activities in football kick–off today. Fans, professional clubs, community groups and players from across the UK will take part in the national anti- racism week of action.

The extended week is being launched today to take place between the 16 and 28 October. Over 500 activities will take place over the 12 days across the country.

Highlights will include:

• Every professional club in England and Wales will hold anti-racism activities at home games over the next two weekends.

• Community groups will be celebrating the history of black, Asian and other ethnic minorities in the game through events in local communities. Over 35 groups will be drawing on ‘Community Chest’ grants awarded by Kick It Out and the Football Foundation to deliver larger projects.

• Fans groups will be involved in leading many activities, including distribution of a new fanzine United Colours of Football 4.

• Secondary schools will be involved in a competition in which pupils will be asked to write an interview with one of six selected black or Asian players, from the past or those still in the game.

Launch events are taking place today in London and Sheffield. In London ‘Moving On Up’ will feature an interactive discussion with role models including Arsenal legend Paul Davis, Gary Beadle of East-Enders (plays Paul Trueman), Martin Offiah, the former GB rugby league player, Shovell of pop group M-people and young Arsenal ladies and England footballer Aman Dosanj. The event will be presented by Aasma Mir of 5- Live.

The stars will be answering questions and offering practical advice to young inner city Londoners to help raise aspirations and tackle exclusion.

Lord Herman Ouseley, chairman of Kick It Out today welcomed the activities,

“The range and breadth of both community and club based activities taking place during the week are a testament to the good work going on in football with communities traditionally excluded from the game.

“The message from this year’s week of action is that we need to fend off complacency and keep up the ongoing battle against racism through education, positive engagement and by working in partnership. This way will be the way in which we can bring equality to life.”

You can read the "Kick it Out Fanzine" Here (600K pdf file)