DUFC

SHOW RACISM THE RED CARD WEEKEND OF ACTION

19th January 2004

In partnership with the Bank of Scotland premierleague, this weekend's fixture between Dundee United and Dundee will see the clubs uniting to support Show Racism the Red Card.


This marks the first such weekend of action in Scotland and every first team player in the SPL will be Showing Racism the Red Card before kick-off.

Show Racism the Red Card was set up in 1996 and uses professional football as a vehicle to combat racism both in the game itself and the rest of society. Since then, the charity's campaign has welcomed the support of many top names from football in Scotland and worldwide, players who can see beyond an individual's race or country of origin, on the park and off it.

The fact that Scotland's society is multi-cultural should also be welcomed. Sadly, however, racist attacks are on the rise in Scotland - up 61% since 2000. It's not only about the headline-grabbing incidents though, it is also about the day-in, day-out abuse and unreported incidents that take place in our communities. Refugees and asylum-seekers have borne the brunt of this racism recently. Imagine if your own family had given up everything to escape extreme poverty, war and the threat of death, only to face hatred on reaching this so-called safe-haven.

We have made some progress from the disgusting scenes we witnessed at Scottish football grounds in the 1980s - monkey chants and bananas directed at black players, but problems still exist within the game at home and abroad. It is an ongoing fight to make it clear to racists that they have no place in 'the beautiful game'.

This weekend's game gives you the chance to show your backing for the Show Racism the Red Card campaign. The support the SPL, the SFA, the SPFA and the clubs have given Show Racism the Red Card in organising this weekend shows their commitment to stopping racism in football and society. This commitment means nothing without the support of the fans. We hope you enjoy the game and support Show Racism the Red Card's campaign to make football an enjoyable experience for everyone, whatever their colour, religion or country of origin.

For more information on Show Racism the Red Card and the anti-racist resources available visit our Links section on the left hand tool bar or contact their Scottish Co-ordinator, Roddy McNulty, on 0141 332 8566.

"Black or white - we all have football under our skin." Eusebio