09th November 2005

Club wants fans to get message

Celtic will deliver a strong anti-sectarian and anti-racist message at the forthcoming Old Firm CIS Cup tie at Celtic Park. It will also highlight the work the club does in the community and its involvement in a range of projects which aim to tackle sectarianism and racism.

The match, on Wednesday, November 9, will see 22 pupils from two East End primary schools – Haghill Park Primary, Dennistoun, and St Mark’s Primary, Shettleston – take part in a skills practice session on the pitch. And these youngsters will lead out the teams before the game.

These events aim to promote Celtic and Rangers’ involvement in the Old Firm Alliance initiative. The project, which began last season, aims to promote football for all and bring people together.

Since launching its award-winning Bhoys Against Bigotry initiative back in 1996, Celtic has developed its work aimed at tackling sectarianism and racism within society through a range of projects.

The Club has enjoyed a long relationship with Show Racism the Red Card and has supported a range of activities with first-team players playing an important role in promoting a strong anti-racism message on behalf of the Club.

For a number of years Celtic Charity Fund, the charitable arm of Celtic Football Club has also funded a range of projects with substantial donations. These include cross-community initiatives in Scotland and Ireland which aim to break down barriers and bring people together.

These include the Omagh Fund, Northern Ireland Children’s Events and the Northern Ireland Children’s Holiday Scheme.

Celtic’s work in the community has been strengthened in recent years by the establishment of Celtic Education. Managed by Tony Russell, the Celtic Education programme has already worked with thousands of young people.

He said: "This programme working to support S3 pupils is now in its third year. It has proven to be hugely successful. Every secondary school in Glasgow has been offered a place and 26 have accepted. Almost 2000 pupils have enjoyed the benefits and overall schools have reported an 86% improvement in participating pupils."

The work of Sense over Sectarianism will also be promoted. Celtic, Rangers, Glasgow City Council and the churches within Scotland are all partners in the SOS initiative.

Celtic Charity Fund, the charitable arm of Celtic has over a number of years made substantial financial contributions to the work of SOS. Celtic is delighted to be part of the highly successful programme and looks forward to continuing its association. The club has an important role to play in the community and the club is delighted, along with our partners, to promote these important messages.

Source: Celtic FC