#noplaceforhate in Norfolk sport
Active Norfolk and NGBs confirm there’s no place for hate in Norfolk sport
With the excitement and spectacle of the sporting achievements of the Olympics in full swing, we want to take a moment and reflect on the place of sport to inspire and motivate us all.
Whether professional athletes or grassroots players, the great thing about sport is that it can bring people of different backgrounds and abilities together to enjoy a common pursuit. The skill and athleticism of professional athletes can influence individuals to strive for more in their sport, and motivate people to become more active. They can be role models of perseverance, dedication, and accomplishment.
In contrast, the all-too common incidences of discriminatory abuse towards athletes that have been highlighted in local, regional, and national media recently are something that we must acknowledge has no place in sport – or our communities.
For the last several months Active Norfolk has been working with our national network of partners, including Sport England and the Active Partnership National Network, to look at strategic and systemic responses that we can collectively support to address this shameful and unacceptable behaviour.
However, in light of the high-profile events surrounding the online racial abuse following the Euros 2020 Final recently, and against the backdrop of the Olympics, we feel that now is the time to confirm our position on this issue.
Together with several heads of Norfolk’s Governing Bodies of Sport, we want to confirm our commitment to the athletes, spectators, and coaches that form the fabric of Norfolk’s sporting community that there is no place for hate in Norfolk sport.
We want to draw a line under the recent shameful displays and pledge that we will not condone or ignore any form of discriminatory abuse within our sporting communities.
There’s support out there for you
If you have witnessed or been the victim of abuse and wish to report it, either officially or just to talk through your concerns, there is local support in Norfolk you can turn to.
The Stop Hate in Norfolk (SHiN) website has information on reporting hate crimes, whether they’re in person or online. They have designed staff in organisations and community groups who you can speak to more informally than reporting to the police.
