Say NO to Racism at Euro 2012
- by: Carin Cowell
- recipient: the governments of Ukraine and Poland
A recent BBC documentary showed that racism at Polish and Ukraine football grounds is rife. The Panorama show, aired on May 28 2012, depicted the shocking behaviour of fans, including monkey chants, attacks on Asian supporters and Nazi salutes.
Mario Balotelli (Manchester United) has said that he will walk off the pitch if he is racially abused. Furthermore, Sol Campbell, ex. England captain, has advised fans not to travel to the competition due to the risk of violence.
In the documentary the police were shown to do nothing when violence broke out. It would be a terrible shame if one of the greatest supporting events is marred by racism. The Polish and Ukraine governments must ensure that the rule of law is upheld and that violent gangs are not allowed to ruin the event.
Let Euro 2012 be a celebration of football talent and not an arena for racism. Sign our call for action.
To the governments of Ukraine and Poland,
We, the undersigned, write this petition calling for urgent action to be taken to ensure that racism does not dominate the Euro 2012 event. Police must be fully trained and briefed to uphold the rule of law and put a stop to any racism that occurs both on and off the pitch.
Fears about possible racist attacks have resulted in many cancelling their trips to the event. It is in everyone’s interest that Poland and Ukraine show the world that they fully support equality and that racism is not tolerated in their countries.
This great sporting event should represent the football talent of each player and country and not be an arena for xenophobia or racist attacks.
We call on you to make this a Euro cup which will be remembered for great football and nothing else.
Thank you for your attention.
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