26th October 2004
Clubs continue to fight against racism

Two weeks of co-ordinated anti-racist action across European football come to a close on Wednesday night at all the Bank of Scotland Premierleague fixtures across the country. This campaign has been organised in conjunction with Football Against Racism in Europe (FARE) and Show Racism the Red Card (SRTRC) and builds upon SRTRC's first SPL weekend of action which took place in January 2004.

For the first time, all 42 professional clubs in Scotland have been involved, making a significant contribution to the FARE events taking place in 33 countries Europe-wide over the last two weeks.

This campaign has come at a time when racist attacks continue to rise in Scottish society. Football is a powerful medium to break down the barriers of ignorance which lead to racist attacks. SRTRC have been delighted by the support shown by SPL players over the last year, attending events, launches and in general, setting the example that racism has no place in Scotland.

Iain Blair, Secretary of the SPL said, "This Wednesday night, players from every SPL club will show racism the red card before the Bank of Scotland Premierleague matches across the country. Their visible support of the anti-racism campaign sends out a positive message to young and old that football is a game to be enjoyed by all."

These events will be supported by articles in match programmes and club websites in addition to tannoy announcements at the games all spreading the anti-racist message. This follows similar actions which took place at all Scottish Football League fixtures on Saturday 16 October.

Last season successful anti-racist children's seminars were hosted by Rangers, Hibs and Hearts. Similar events are also planned at Dundee United, Aberdeen, Livingston and Celtic in the coming months.