Zero Discrimination

This Saturday, 1 March, is the international day of Zero Discrimination. We believe that everybody deserves the right to live a long and dignified life, irrespective of race, religion, sexual orientation, nationality, disability or gender.

#zerodiscrimination

There is NO room for discrimination in society. Nationally and internationally we have promoted inclusion and raised awareness about issues of discrimination, in an effort to celebrate diversity.

“People who discriminate narrow the world of others as well as their own. I believe in a world where everyone can flower and blossom” Daw Aung San Suu Kyi, Nobel Peace Prize Laureate

As the first international day of Zero Discrimination approaches, we take this time to reflect on a number of conferences we held last year.

Raising awareness about discrimination and promoting diversity

During 2013, Sport Network organised two conferences in Madrid. The first, held in April, encouraged dialogue about issues of social inclusion and power of sport in the development context; and the second discussed ‘Racism, Discrimination and Diversity in Football’.

The second conference included a diverse panel of speakers, including academics, grassroots organisations, campaign groups, football clubs and a former professional footballer. During the conference, zero tolerance at the top level and education at grassroots level were emphasised as important in addressing the issues of racism and discrimination in football. All agreed that more cooperation is required and that the media have a key role to play.

Paul Elliott, former professional footballer, emphasised the importance of “zero tolerance sanctions at the top, but education, role models and leadership at the grassroots”.

Forming a collective voice

As an organisation, we believe that raising awareness is key to tackling issues of discrimination. As a member of the FARE Network, we have participated in a number of events aimed at tackling discrimination and promoting diversity. The FARE Football People Action Weeks provide a fantastic opportunity for organisations to form a collective voice against issues of discrimination and celebrate diversity. 

Everyone can contribute to the fight against discrimination. Follow the UNAIDS campaign via social media, using the hashtag #zerodiscrimination

“Be the change you wish to see in the world” – Mahatma Gandhi