#Enough
Footballers are taking a stand against racism with a 24 hour social media boycott this Good Friday.
👊🏽👊🏼👊🏿 Making a stand against racist abuse!
A player led 24hr boycott on social media.
Read more: https://t.co/XxVkrefZ1H pic.twitter.com/I787Ar6rKg
— Professional Footballers’ Association (@PFA) April 18, 2019
The protest was promoted on Thursday night with the hashtag #Enough, with several high profile players tweeting about the campaign, including Jonathan Walters and Jeffrey Schlupp.
Players will not use any form of social media from 09.00am 19th April to 09.00am on the 20th April.
The PFA’s statement reads: “Over the last few months, both domestically and internationally, there have been a number of high-profile racist incidents directed at players.
“The boycott acts as a show of unity by the players, and a call for stronger action to be taken by social networks and footballing authorities in response to racist abuse both on and off the pitch.
“Players recognise that these racist incidents are a reflection of societal issues. They know first-hand how damaging racism can be and are using their platforms to inspire change that will benefit players, football and society as a whole.
“The boycott is the first step in a longer campaign to tackle racism in football. The PFA will continue to work closely with The FA and government to ensure more is done to tackle racist abuse, while also seeking to put pressure on both FIFA and UEFA through FIFPro.
Simone Pound, Head of Equalities at the PFA, said: “Football has the power to do so much good in the world. We must always try to use the sport’s popularity and influence to make positive change.
“Over the last few months we have seen a rise in appalling instances of racist abuse at grounds around the world, and on social media. We cannot stand by while too little is done to address this unacceptable behaviour.
“The PFA has always been at the forefront of tackling racism and we are reaffirming our commitment to all of our members. We will do all we can to put an end to the abuse players face on the pitch and online.”
Both Chris Smalling and Danny Rose have endorsed the boycott. Smalling said: “Throughout my career I have developed a thick skin against verbal abuse, justifying it as just ‘part of the game’ but the time has come for Twitter, Instagram and Facebook to consider regulating their channels, taking responsibility for protecting the mental health of users regardless of age, race, sex or income.”
The Manchester United defender added: “I understand that I am in an extremely privileged position and I am deeply thankful for that but, at the end of the day, we are all human. As a patron of a youth education charity it is my duty to use my platform as a voice for all, regardless of background. We have to take a greater stand against discrimination of all kinds.”
Rose was blunt in his examination of the issue, stating: “Football has a problem with racism.”
“When I said that I can’t wait to see the back of football, it is because of the racism that I, and many other players, have been subjected to our entire careers,” the Spurs player added.
