How much of a role should the media play in helping to reduce racism in football?
A huge and ongoing role, in every vehicle of the media, and at every opportunity. Think about it. Where do we get our information from, where do many members of society take their lead from, in forming their opinions? It might take a minute to make sense, but think on this: a radio news bulletin announces that a bank is in trouble, say a scenario similiar to the recent Northern Rock furore. Later the same day the station takes calls from people worried about their money in that bank, seeking reassurances. Presto! Next news bulletin says queues are beginning to form at branches of the bank, nervous investors wanting their cash out of a bank deemed “in trouble”. This demonstrates that we do indeed take our lead from the media. Now stop and think of the positivity the media could have if they were united in the fight to tackle racism. If a simple measure, naming and shaming, were adopted by the radio and television stations that have broadcasts of matches, it would go a long long way to g
