As part of Islamophobia Awareness Month (IAM) 2019, as a community we had the idea of using the momentum and unity that football brings to organise the first Kicking Out Islamophobia Football Tournament in Cardiff.
In 2017/18, hate crimes shot up by 40% with 8,336 religiously motivated hate-crime incidents being recorded in England & Wales. In recent years, 52% of these attacks have been against Muslims. Despite these alarming figures, many incidences go underreported due to the lack of awareness about the importance of reporting Islamophobia. This is why more than ever, it is so important that we raise awareness and come together in solidarity against Islamophobia and any discrimination of any kind.
The variety of personalities, ages and backgrounds that came together in a friendly football tournament from the South Wales Police, Cardiff University Islamic Society, Victim Support Hate Crime and MEND was a great display of the Cardiff community spirit.
The teams were reminded by organisers that they were playing for two things; 1) A community trophy shield as a celebratory win and 2) a commitment towards making sure they contribute towards tackling Islamophobia together.
Thank you to everyone who came and played their hearts out, the South Wales Police secured the community shield for 2019!
If your organisation or community team would like to get involved for the Kicking Out Islamophobia Football Tournament 2020, please get in touch with Cardiff@Mend.org.uk or find out more about what you can do to tackle Islamophobia –
www.islamophobia-awareness.org
www.reporthate.victimsupport.org.uk/
#IAMCHANGE
