Belgians spread the message
Monday, April 5, 2004
Article summary
The Belgian Football Association is campaigning against racism in the sport.
Article body
One of the primary objectives of the Belgian Football Association (URBSFA) has been to ensure that football in the country can develop in an atmosphere of fraternity, solidarity and fair play.
Efforts increased
The URBSFA's 'Futurofoot' project has already seen the launching of various initiatives: neighbourhood football, campaigns against alcohol and drugs and a fair play drive have all left a mark on the Belgian football scene. Since the end of 2002, football in the country has also stepped up its efforts to combat the evil of racism within the game.
Equal opportunitites
Under the theme 'Samen Kleurrijk Sporten - Carte Rouge au Racisme' (Red Card to Racism), the URBSFA has been working in close conjunction with the country's Centre for Equal Opportunities and the Samen Kleurrijk Sporten foundation to combat racism on and off the field in Belgium, and to promote the integration of minority groups within clubs.
Government involvement
These initiatives have been taking place with the co-operation of Belgium's top clubs, coaches, players and officials. In August 2003, the URBSFA created a social charter in which Belgium's élite football family declared that the sport should be available to everyone, irrespective of their race, beliefs or personal background. Club Brugge KV distributed leaflets to supporters at a match last October, and R. Excelsior Mouscron staged an anti-discrimination day with the participation of government minister Marie Arena.
Anti-racism events
From the start of 2003, all of Belgium's home matches played at the Roi Baudouin stadium in Brussels have been accompanied by anti-racism events. To mark the February friendly against European champions France, players launched posters which were sent to each club in the country.
Spread the message
Clubs are being asked to spread the message among their young players. And for a group of young football enthusiasts, the game against France proved to be a memorable experience, as they entered the pitch with their heroes, wearing T-shirts with a clear message ... racism has no place in football.
