Arsenal in the Community

Showing Racism the Red Card

Monty Panesar and Perry Groves pose with Show Racism the Red Card ambassadors

On September 26, our BTEC students participated in anti-racism workshops conducted by Show Racism the Red Card, including a Q&A session with former Gunner Perry Groves and England cricketer Monty Panesar.

Among the workshop's objectives was educating young people on recognising racism, encouraging them to understand the impact of racism, empowering them to actively confront racism in their communities, and preparing these young individuals to be active and engaged citizens in our multicultural society.

Throughout the day, our students engaged in discussions about racism, its prevention, and the promotion of understanding each other's differences. 

The session closed with a panel discussion, including Groves and Panesar, who shared their personal experiences with racism during their careers. Groves recounted how fellow teammates Paul Davis, David Rocastle and Michael Thomas had helped him better understand the impact of racism in football and wider society. 

Both panellists emphasised the need for authorities to impose stricter sanctions on clubs where racial abuse occurs. Our BTEC students also had the opportunity to pose questions to the panel and the subsequent insights left a profound impact on them. 

Show Racism the Red Card is an anti-racism educational charity set up in 1996, designed to harness the profile and power of football to educate against racism throughout the UK. 

The organisation's annual Wear Red Day will take place on October 20. More information on how you can take part can be found on their website.