John Barnes points the way forward.
Racism in decline
Monday, 21 November 2005.
The Voice, Britain’s best known black paper, and BBC Radio London recently hosted a debate concerning ‘How Racism in Football has reduced over the last 30 years' as part of Black history month.
Koye Sowemimo of The FA Customer Relations team attended the debate in London’s Hammersmith’s Town Hall to show his support, but more importantly to listen to what the public really thinks on this issue.
Opened by Jeff Schuman of BBC Radio London, the event was an opportunity for the public to ask questions relating to racism to an experienced panel which included footballing legends John Barnes, Clive Wilson, Mark Walters, Les Ferdinand, Gary Bennett and John Hollins.
The panellists shared some of the experiences they had dealt with during their professional careers with an audience of over 350 people.
Some key issues were discussed on the evening such as the lack of black managers and coaches at the highest level, The FA's strategy to tackling racism in football and the future for black players in the game.
After much heated debating the general view was that football authorities are clamping down on issues relating to racism and finally paving the way for a level playing field.
Due to the success of this event, there are plans for it to be taken across the UK. The FA would like to wish the event organisers all the best for the future.
A football signed by all the players is being auctioned for the Show Racism The Red Card charity. To register your bid please click on the following link; http://www.bbc.co.uk/london/
To report instances of racism, abuse and discrimination in football, call Freephone 0800 085 0508 or email FootballForAll@TheFA.com