At this week’s meeting of Napo Officers and Officials we discussed the events that were reported before and after the European Championship final between England and Italy last Sunday.
These show that in addition to the disgusting racism posted on social media against England Team members: Bukayo Saka, Jadon Sancho and Marcus Rushford, a number of incidents took place involving physical assaults and threatening behaviour against Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic England supporters as well as Italy supporters and their families,
Whilst many Napo members may not have an interest in Football, we are sure that you would all repudiate these shameful activities. That’s why Napo has signed the attached letter of support to the Professional Football Association from TUC General Secretary Frances O’Grady. READ HERE
In addition, the General Secretary has already made contact with senior PFA management to explore how we might assist them in profiling their work in the run up to this year’s Trades Union Congress and will be writing a letter of support to our sister trade union.
Napo’s ongoing work against Racism
More news on Napo’s initiatives against racism will follow soon. This work includes the activities of the Napo Black Members Network, the development of the Branch Anti-Racism Officer role, and Napo’s statement against racism. This is being supplemented by Napo’s representation on the TUC Ant-Racism Task Force where the General Secretary is involved in work around Public Policy, identifying the societal changes that are needed in terms of employment rights and equality of opportunity. There will also be a ‘Show Racism the Red Card’ fringe event as part of the Napo AGM in October.
Politicians also have a responsibility
Meanwhile, we call on senior political figures such as the Prime Minister and Home Secretary to fully support the global campaign against racism and all forms of hate crime. Sadly, it is a fact that statements which denigrate the fight against racism and a failure to take meaningful action against social media companies are seen by those with such repugnant attitudes that their views are somehow acceptable.