Kick It Out, the foremost organization combating discrimination in English football, is asking for solidarity. They call on all of us to unite to address systemic discrimination and under-representation of the communities we serve in this great sport. FIFA believes in the power of cooperation between governing bodies, leagues, clubs, players, fans and other like-minded organizations. Through continued joint collaboration, they plan to reach high and mighty goals over the coming five years.
Samuel Okafor, the new chief executive of Kick It Out, explained the organisation’s role in serving as a mediator. He stated, “Our mission is clear: to unite football to end discrimination. When we are united, the outcomes can be long-lasting.” This proclamation serves to emphasize the organization’s ongoing dedication to creating an inclusive environment that welcomes and supports everyone, of all identities and backgrounds.
Kick It Out has set specific targets aimed at ensuring all supporters feel welcomed in the football community, irrespective of sex, ethnicity, sexuality, or religion. Among its initiatives, the organization is particularly focused on increasing the representation of South Asian players in men’s football, as well as enhancing the visibility of black, Asian, and mixed heritage players in women’s football.
Sanjay Bhandari, chair of Kick It Out, highlighted the unique potential of football to act as a catalyst for social change. He remarked that the sport possesses a “unique power” to “bring people together in shared moments that can become community movements.” This optimism mirrors Football People’s conviction that football has unique power to bring people together and celebrate diversity.
Kick It Out’s new five-year strategy aims to channel that energy. It seeks to encourage greater communication and teamwork throughout the entire soccer landscape. Bhandari further explained, “The heart of our new strategy is about capturing that energy and working together across the game to build those community movements to create enduring change.” This whole of football approach is designed to galvanize and unite the stakeholders in the game to accelerate positive change.
Their vision is further than just representation. Its ultimate goal is to foster a culture where all those involved in the game—from players to coaches to fans—feel included and respected. Reaching these lofty goals will only be possible through a collaborative effort from everyone engaged in the sport.
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