There have been a growing number of racist and sexist incidents at all levels of football. Fortunately, clubs, officials, players and supporters are demonstrating their intolerance of this behaviour. Recent matches have been abandoned following discriminatory abuse, but positive action is being taken. When a black referee was abused at our away match at Ashton in August, the game was stopped and only restarted when the Ashton manager escorted the racists out of the ground to the applause of the crowd.
FC is proud to be developing strong links with our local diverse communities in North Manchester. We strive to be accessible to all, discriminating against none, and continually make it clear that there is zero tolerance for such behaviour at our club. With the help of local community organisations including the North Manchester Community Partnership, supporters led by the Community Committee have organised this 'Say No to Racism' event. Warrington Town Club, players and officials have given their support, and both teams will be taking the knee before kick-off, with players wearing Kick It Out t-shirts during the warm-up.
What's Happening on Matchday:
As supporters arrive, the wonderful Adinkra and Heritage drumming group will be performing adjacent to the Boardwalk between 2pm and 3pm. The Club is delighted to welcome asylum seekers as guests. In the words of a local hotel manager, for these young men "just to watch a football game is a dream come true".
Between 2pm and 2.45pm, refugees and FC United supporters will take part in a friendly game together on the 3G pitch.
In the main Function Room between 1.45pm and 2.15pm, supporters will be treated to the wonderful voices of the Women Asylum Seekers Together (WAST) choir. At 2.15pm the choir will move down to the space between the main stand and the SMRE, continuing to sing and greeting supporters as they come into the ground.
At half-time, Tony from the FC Board will hold a short interview with guests from Moston and Collyhurst Boxing Club, notably Commonwealth Champion Lyndon Arthur. The Deputy Mayor of Greater Manchester Kate Green, holder of the portfolio for tackling Hate Crime, will also be saying a few words.
FC United is proud of its vibrant and fun matchday experience, attracting growing numbers of children, families and fans of all ages from different communities across North Manchester. If you see new faces in the crowd, do say hello and welcome to the FC family.
The event has been made possible thanks to generous support, donations, and resources from Pure Properties, First Bus, and the MCC Neighbourhood Investment Fund.
