Black Lives Matter
The London FA entirely supports the movement against systematic institutionalised racism and historical oppression of black and other ethnic communities.
We stand with those who have been discriminated against or have suffered because of their race.
Everyone has the fundamental human right to live, work and enjoy their lives free from prejudice, racism and discrimination. We know that this has not always been the case in football.
We stand together on the terraces, on the pitch and on the side-lines. We stand with the players, coaches, managers, referees, volunteers and supporters. We are here to unite the game and unite people.
At London FA, we believe we have started to make progress. But we also know that we have so much more to do. That is why tackling discrimination and increasing diversity is at the heart of our new strategy.
We recognise that change is needed. We don’t have all the answers. But as a diverse and united team, we will find some and are committed to continuing to learn together through open, honest and safe conversations.
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#BlackLivesMatter
USEFUL Links
- London FA's Strategy
- Racial Equality Action Plan
- Nujum Sports Brochure
- How To Report Racism And Discrimination In Football
- Football Your Way
- Football Discrimination FAQs
- The FA's new EDI Strategy, A Game For All
- FA Asian Inclusion Strategy
- Funding For Solutions To Tackle Inequality
- Stand Up To Racism UK
- Ways You Can Help (Via Black Lives Matter)
- A List Of Resources For Supporting The Black Lives Matter Movement
FA guidance to referees regarding Black Lives Matter
The FA as an organisation is supportive of the Black Lives Matter movement.
However, to the extent there are any requests for players to take the knee or display the Black Lives Matter slogan as part of their clothing at grassroots level, the current view is that any such requests should be dealt with locally by the relevant County FA/Leagues as they deem appropriate and based on any relevant considerations.
In practice we would expect referees to implement the following approach:
- Should any players, technical staff or match officials wish to demonstrate their support by taking a knee for a short period at the beginning of the game, the match referee will ensure the request is accommodated.
- Club officials from both teams and match officials should discuss pre-match to ensure the referee can pause the game momentarily at kick off.
LONDON FA CEO'S REFLECTIONS
Please view the video on the right to listen to Paul Bickerton, London FA's CEO, as he provides his thoughts and reflections on the Black Lives Matter movement and its importance.
