MALTA – AN INTEGRAL PART OF FARE ACTION INITIATIVE

‘We are Football People’ is the message which goes resounding through hundreds of activities in many countries all over Europe and in the continents of Africa, South and North America on 24 October.  The 2013 FARE ACTION week activities kicked-off on Tuesday, 15 October, heralding a two- week period in which football makes a stand against discrimination and celebrates diversity. The action weeks is the biggest event of its kind in Europe and unites fans, minority groups, activists and grassroots groups with players, clubs, leagues and football federations in a united message against all forms of discrimination on and off the pitch. Over 270 groups have been awarded grants to support activities that will include stadium choreographies, tournaments, debates, flash-mobs and other action aimed at tackling discrimination through football. As in previous years Malta is forming an integral part of this global campaign which is also being highlighted on the initiative of UEFA during the Champions League and Europa League games. Forty matches across Europe are already displaying through the teams taking part a ‘No to Racism’ message. Our country is proud to participate in the Action Week, an activity in sport with a social message that brings unity among all people of different colour and creed and seeks to find new solutions to combat discrimination. It is planned that players of the teams involved in Sunday’s Premier League match between Hibernians and Floriana will wear T-shirts for the FARE Action occasion. Yes, Football reflects a message of unity and inclusiveness, and Malta, through its Football Association is part of this continental and global propagation of noble principles.