EFL launch new ‘Together Against Racism’ campaign to urge fans to report abuse heard inside stadiums or seen online as the League joins forces with Kick It Out
- Each of the EFL’s 72 clubs will dedicate a home day to promote the campaign
- Jobi McAnuff released a video telling fans how to report abuse
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The English Football League has launched a new initiative calling on its supporters to report racism and discrimination heard in stadiums and online.
The ‘Together Against Racism’ campaign has the support of Kick It Out and the 72 EFL clubs, who will each dedicate a home day in October to promote it.
The EFL initiative will run alongside the Premier League’s ‘No Place for Racism’ and Football Association’s ‘Enough is Enough’ campaigns throughout October.
Supporters of EFL clubs will be reminded how they can report abuse heard in stadiums or seen online so that law enforcement authorities can take action.
EFL chief executive Trevor Birch said: “Football has a platform to deliver positive change in society, so we are proud to work with football partners to ensure a welcoming environment for all.
The EFL has launched a new ‘Together Against Racism’ campaign to encourage fans to report abuse they hear in stadiums or online to the authorities.
Each of the EFL’s 72 clubs will promote the campaign at a home day this month.
“Our clubs work hard to eliminate unwanted behavior in football and, with the many measures introduced by football in recent years, we will continue to support them as we seek to make the EFL truly representative of the communities we represent.”
Former Sky player turned pundit Jobi McAnuff said: ‘While incidents are reported, we also know there are likely more that are not reported. This campaign aims to break down barriers to reporting, educate supporters on why it’s so important and the methods they have to do it.
“Even though football strives to progress, there is still much to do. I am proud to participate and play a small role in raising awareness of measures that can help combat racism, abuse and all forms of discrimination.
Tony Burnett, CEO of Kick It Out, added: “Kick It Out joins the EFL in urging fans and attendees to report discrimination when they see or hear it.
“Our research suggests that fans are becoming less tolerant of this behavior, but we know that many other incidents still go unreported.
Former player turned Sky Sports pundit Jobi McAnuff voiced video for campaign
“This month, and throughout the season, we encourage fans and participants to contact Kick It Out when they witness or experience abuse through our app, website or social media.
“We welcome the governing bodies’ commitment to using their upcoming awareness-raising and anti-discrimination initiatives as a springboard for further collaboration in this area, which we believe should focus on sharing best practice in reporting procedures and agree on additional steps to make the game more inclusive.
“These actions will help make the game safer and more welcoming for everyone.”