12:00, 25 October 2024
| by Matthew Brown
Young people from Manchester United Foundation’s partner schools took inspiration from local role models in the Manchester community as part of a Show Racism the Red Card event at Old Trafford.
Taking part in a variety of activities overlooking the Old Trafford pitch, young people had the opportunity to ask questions to a panel of expert figures about racism in society.
Representatives from the Premier League and Show Racism the Red Card were joined by councillor for Ardwick, Amna Abdullatif, and actor and activist, Lamin Touray, as part of a panel who provided plenty of insight for the Foundation’s young people.
Following the workshops, young people were tasked with creating an action plan on how they can help to tackle racism in their communities.
“It is really important to be continually having these conversations,” said Amna.
“A big thank you to Manchester United Foundation for hosting these constant conversations around how we tackle discrimination, but specifically racism, and especially during Black History Month."
“Ensuring that young people feel safe to have these conversations is really vital.”
Lamin, a lifelong Red who grew up in M16, added: “I was raised in Old Trafford and it definitely shaped me to become the man I am today – living in a diverse, multi-cultural community.
“It’s been an inspiring morning of conversation and growth, and it’s great to have these difficult conversations and try to educate the next generation. It’s amazing to work with Manchester United and with the young people."
100 per cent of surveyed students said the event helped them to feel a part of their community, and that it had helped to change their understanding of racism.
Wear Red Day is an annual showcase for Show Racism the Red Card, which an anti-racism education charity. The charity works to challenge racism in society by empowering role models within communities, organisations, and sports, in order to dismantle racism in society.