Footballers are used to harsh treatment from opposing crowds during the heat of battle over 90 minutes – it goes with the territory. But comments made about them from the world at large, over the internet, based on something other than their footballing ability? It shouldn’t happen. Not in 2022. Regrettably, however, discrimination is still very much alive and kicking.
With record attendances, plentiful TV coverage, some thrilling matches and – dare we say it? – a more evident sense of fair play than the men’s game, the Women’s European Football Championships is one of the sporting showpieces of the summer so far. Our #WakeUpWednesday guide from NOS suggests how we can all help to keep it that way with some tips for championing equality online.
Football thrives on passionate opinions and debates. “Never a penalty!” … “Should’ve passed it!” … “That’s offside!” Regardless of where their loyalties lie, though, one area where virtually all fans agree is that discrimination based on someone’s religious belief, sexuality, race or gender is simply unacceptable. How can football truly be ‘the beautiful game’ without equality? Note that we said “virtually all” fans. Unfortunately, the likes of Pernille Harder, Wendie Renard and Vivianne Miedema often have as many online comments about their gender, skin colour or LGBTQ+ status as their footballing finesse. Our #WakeUpWednesday guide has some top tips for spreading positivity, not prejudice, during this summer’s Euro Championships.
