Hearts take a stand against racism at Tynecastle Stadium, March 12th 2010
Heart of Midlothian FC organised an anti-racist educational seminar at Tynecastle stadium as part of the club’s ongoing work with Show Racism The Red Card.
More about this event...
100 pupils from Broomhouse Primary, St Margaret’s Primary, Pentland Primary, James Gillespie’s Primary and Nether Currie Primary attend the event alongside a group of young people that travelled through from Falkirk. This event was in addition to the workshops delivered by the club and Show Racism The Red Card prior to home fixtures.
Ex-Hearts player and club legend Gary MacKay was there to greet the schools on arrival, the pupils had some snacks laid on by the club while enjoying the view out onto the pitch. Current players Laryea Kingston and Marius Zaliukas joined Gary for the session.
After watching the Show Racism The Red Card Scotland film which features Christian Nade and ex-Hearts players Craig Levein and Robbie Neilson, the young people were given the opportunity to ask questions on racism to a panel which included Gary, Laryea, Marius and Diana Dodd from Edinburgh City Council.
Speaking after the event Diana Dodd said” This was a great afternoon for all the schools involved and a real support to them in tackling racism and the causes of racism. The children’s questions showed they were moved by the film and had genuine concern and desire to understand and get rid of racism altogether. We are delighted that Hearts and Show Racism the Red Card make this opportunity possible”.
Billy Singh, Campaign Manager with Show Racism added, “Hearts have been long-term supporters of Show Racism the Red Card, this week’s educational seminar is something that we’ve been doing at the club annually since 2005. It’s clear that the young people enjoy the event and walk away with some very positive understandings.”
Marius Zaliukas, Hearts vice-captain said: "It is very important that the club supports Show Racism The Red Card and it was great to see so many school pupils attend the event at Tynecastle.
"There is no place for racism in football and it is vital that we continue to spread that message, particularly to youngsters in society."
This event was supported by UNISON Scotland.
We would like to thank everyone that made this event possible, especially the pupils from Broomhouse Primary, St Margaret’s Primary, Pentland Primary, James Gillespie’s Primary and Nether Currie Primary.
