Vale stars spread anti-racism message
Three members of the Port Vale squad took part in an anti-racism event for children, held at Vale Park.
A lot of it can come from the older generation… they really need to think about the effect that it can have on people…
First-team players Jack Grimmer, Gavin Tomlin and Richard Duffy took part in the event which featured a workshop, a film screening and a Q&A session.
Moorpark Junior School, Burslem attended the event which was hosted by the group Show Racism the Red Card.
Gavin Tomlin told the audience: “Fortunately I haven’t received any racism whilst playing football. Clips and Images in the media over-exaggerate the portrayal of different cultures. I think people need to remember to make up their own minds.
However, Tomlin has received racist abuse in the past: “At the time I didn’t understand why people would call me such names and I used to get angry and upset by it but you just have to remember they don’t understand. You always have to put yourself in the other persons shoes. Racism comes from a lack of education so question the perpetrator to teach them.”
Grimmer added: “I speak for all three of us when I say it is disgusting! It’s very difficult to get rid of it but in today’s day and age there is just no time for it. A lot of it can come from the older generation maybe they just don’t know the people they are saying it to but they really need to think about the effect that it can have on people.”
OVF supports the Show Racism the Red Card, Kick it Out and Football v Homophobia campaigns.
