Pupils and Celtic FC show the red card to racism

The club were proud to work with the educational charity to offer an event to over 80 young people from Torrance Primary, Auchinairn Primary and Meadowburn Primary which demonstrated that racism is something that neither the club nor the fan-base will accept.

The day was designed to promote messages of equality and respect, allowing the young people to explore their views and knowledge about racism in a safe environment whilst learning about some of the history and the consequences of racism in our society.

Pupils took part in interactive workshops which were led by the SRtRC education team, where they explored stereotypes discrimination and some of the history behind racism in our society.

The importance of respect, equality, and good attitude was highlighted throughout the day and young people were also treated to a stadium tour courtesy of Celtic FC.

In the afternoon the pupils had the opportunity to ask a panel of special guests questions about racism.

The panel included Celtic first team stars Liam Henderson and Darnell Fisher who were great role models for the young people and reiterated the messages that the pupils had been learning in the morning sessions.

Also joining the players on the panel were red card supporters Councillor Rhondda Geekie, and Linda McKenna from East Dunbartonshire Council, and Fiona Stewart and Dario D’Andrea, police officers from the Community Safety team.

A raffle was held with pupils winning Show Racism the Red Card t-shirts and one lucky youngster collecting a Celtic football signed by all the players.

Council Leader Rhondda Geekie said: “Children and young people in East Dunbartonshire are always keen to get involved with initiatives that tackle racism and sectarianism and this event held by Show Racism the Red Card was a great opportunity for some of our pupils to find out more about this pertinent issue.

“I was happy to be involved as part of the panel and the pupils asked some thought-provoking and challenging questions. The full and varied programme ensured everyone came away from the event with a greater awareness of the dangers of racism and sectarianism and how to tackle the issue both on and off the pitch.”

Vicki Burns, SRtRC Campaign Manager added, “Celtic FC have been long-time supporters of our campaign and this is a fantastic opportunity for the young people to come along to the club and learn about anti-racism. The young people have shown great enthusiasm and support for the anti-racism message.”