Brentford FC Community Sports Trust has joined a number of European clubs for the launch of a diversity programme with the European Football Development Network. Along with Rangers FC, the Trust joined Chelsea FC Foundation, SV Werder Bremen, Inter Campus, Club Brugge Foundation, and Fundacao for the new ‘Show Racism the Red Card’ (SRTRC) initiative. The 24-month anti-racism and anti-discrimination programme, which is also teaming up with SRTRC Netherlands, will utilise the high-profile status of football to help tackle racism and other forms of discrimination in society.

The project aims to raise awareness of diversity, foster social cohesion and reduce physical and verbal violence linked to racism. The programme’s output includes awareness campaigns in stadiums and in grassroots clubs, educational programmes for schools and workplaces, as well as events to promote diversity through football. To coincide with the launch, a campaign video was released, which included endorsement from Brentford players Sergi Canos and Joel Valencia.

Tomas Abreu, who is leading on the project at Brentford FC Community Sports Trust, said: “We are proud to be engaging with schools, grassroots and stakeholders to promote diversity both on and off the football pitch. By working closely with a number of schools and grassroots football clubs, we are hoping to educate the next generation about the importance of diversity and inclusion – cementing the stance that racism will not be tolerated in any form in football.”

This workshop is part of Brentford FC’s wider diversity and inclusion strategy encapsulated by its “BeeTogether” initiative. The strategy aims to support positive change, make people feel valued and improve the lives and inclusive experience of its fans and wider community.

Anita Ralli - a Trustee at Brentford FC Community Sports Trust and who leads on Equality, Diversity and Inclusion at the Trust - said: “What is so exciting about this project is that it brings together a number of European football clubs to tackle racism in football. Brentford FC have already been recognised for their commitment to diversity. The strength of this project is that we will be working in the heart of our communities in schools and local clubs to help them better understand the campaign and the importance of a no tolerance approach."

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