The consequence of race hate crimes are impacting ethnic communities
The BFF, who have consistently raise awareness of racism and discrimination in grassroots football; have said that their latest research shows people are concerned about the mental health of ethnic communities at a grassroots level.
The forum, who recently completed research via their latest survey, Grassroots and Race: Racism and Discrimination in Local Football, have said that three quarters (74%) of respondents had revealed they were concerned that mental health in ethnic communities members may be suffering from witnessing/ experiencing racism or discrimination in local football. This figure rose to 81% when looking at those who identified as black, Asian or minority ethnic. And when parents were asked if their child/children had faced racism or discrimination in football, the stark reality is that 41% of those from an ethnic background said yes.
Ivan Liburd, Chair of the BFF has said,
“As we continuously work to reduce discrimination, it is important that members who are involved in ethnic communities also continue to raise their voices and share their experiences. Parents are becoming even more concerned about their children suffering from racial trauma, which can result from experiences of racism in football, like having to return to a football ground where they previously received racial abuse, which can cause anxiety. However, looking at how adults are feeling and their nervousness around the mental stability of those from an ethnic background is concerning. Until we see a difference on the ground to ease some of the worry people have about the handling of racism, their concerns and frustration will remain.”
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