With no match action for DCFC this week, FRV looks at the perpetual mission of The Kick It Out Anti-Racism in Football Campaign during their 'Weeks of Action' this month.

The national 'One Game, One Community' Weeks of Action fortnight (October 18th to 29th 2012) sees thousands of sports clubs and youth organisations join with football clubs across the professional and amateur UK game to participate in local and national awareness events.

DCFC players and fans will join up to support the campaign, and defender Mark O'Brien will be at a supporter event in the foyer of the DW Soccerdome, a stone's throw from the PPS turnstiles, at 1.30 pm before Saturday's home game with Blackburn Rovers.

The fortnight is the largest community initiative in the game, promoting inclusivity and celebrating diversity whilst working to conquer all form of discrimination.

Early summer worries arose that racism could blight the Euro 2012 finals in Poland and Ukraine. Racist chant allegations at some games and training sessions were investigated by UEFA and FARE (Football Against Racism in Europe). Happily, the tournament ultimately proved to be a friendly affair.

Liverpool FC had to negotiate negative media coverage surrounding the Luis Suarez affair and it can be observed that the flurry of disciplinary cases, statements, judgements and apologies from high-status players and officials was required to stem the impression that anti-racism campaigns had been dealt a blow.

Respect is paramount at all levels on and off the field to propel the KIO crusade; players of ‘the beautiful game’ are expected to provide positive role models for our youth and must be mindful of the impact of how they speak and act.

The 2012 London Olympics were a huge success on many levels - the logistical excellence and fine facilities complemented the brilliant sporting entertainment and excitement.

The stadium and picnic-area crowds found a sense of community and purpose to generate an incredible atmosphere, which was reflected in the superb performances of the athletes both from Team GB and other nations.

British ethnic pluralism and diversity was demonstrated within Team GB - the pride, focus and dedication of athletes representing Great Britain were all emphatically evident. Many new sporting heroes have emerged to provide the lead for the next generation of British athletes.

The high standard of behaviour and respect that characterised the Olympic Games led several leading football figures and observers to remark that they hoped that the cohesion, friendliness and positive energy generated by London 2012 could rub off on our national game.

The football season moved ahead to overshadow that glorious summer of sport and the Weeks of Action will sustain the anti-prejudice message as communities come together to promote diversity and inclusivity - to kick racism out of football.

Recently, the national game has again been submerged in unwanted racist controversies. Debates arose about pre-game handshakes amid tensions through alleged racial abuse.

Former England captain John Terry was innocent in law - then found guilty by FA committee - of racist abuse of an opponent. Terry’s defence was described as ‘contrived’.

Only this week, international football authorities launched an investigation into the behaviour of players, officials and fans during and after the Under-21 clash between Serbia and England, with racial and violent undertones marring the game.

Several local (Derby) events will take place as detailed in the earlier companion article on RZ, with the Derbyshire FA staging forums and active fans joining in to promote the national KIO effort.ommunity’ participation.

Let's kick racism out of football!

See the latest KIO news at:

http://www.kickitout.org/1478.php

Photo: Action Images

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