Thirty years ago, Newcastle United goalkeeper Shaka Hislop was racially abused at a petrol station by a crowd of young people. But then they recognised him. The abuse stopped. They asked for his autograph. That moment helped spark Show Racism the Red Card.
Thirty years later, the fight against racism is firmly embedded in Scottish football. Working alongside clubs and communities across the country, we use the power of football to educate, challenge attitudes and create change. Our workshops in schools, football clubs, workplaces and communities have reached more than 1.5 million learners across the UK – including 250,000 here in Scotland.
Scottish football brings together people from different backgrounds, cultures and communities. Keeping our game welcoming and inclusive is a responsibility we all share – players, clubs, supporters and communities.
St Johnstone Football Club are proudly continuing our support for Show Racism the Red Card. Using the power of football is a powerful tool to initiate conversations about anti-racism and our club has supported their messages of tolerance and inclusion for many, many years and will continue to do so. Now more than ever, the importance of active anti-racism cannot be overstated.
CEO Francis Smith said: “It is hugely important that, as a club, we use our profile to increase awareness and help to tackle the issue of racism not just in the game but in society as a whole.
“At St Johnstone and the club’s charitable arm, Saints in the Community, we work closely with the local community to help tackle racism. Saints in the Community deliver an education programme throughout all schools in Perth and Kinross and it is an initiative we are all proud of here at McDiarmid Park.
“Show Racism the Red Card also do amazing work in communities throughout Scotland and this weekend it will be great to see all the SPFL clubs coming together in a bid to tackle racism and discrimination.
“Everyone at the club fully supports Show Racism the Red Card.”
Billy Singh, Campaign Manager from Show Racism the Red Card in Scotland had this to say:
“Football has always been more than a game. It brings people together across communities, cities, and nations. In Scotland, our clubs and our supporters have a proud tradition of passion, loyalty, and pride. But football also has a responsibility: to stand firmly against racism and discrimination, both on and off the pitch.
“Recent events show that prejudice and division remain present in society. When voices seek to divide us, football must provide the opposite example – one of unity, respect, and solidarity. The message from our game should be clear: there is no place for racism in our stadiums, in our communities, or in our country.
“Show Racism the Red Card exists because education and action are vital. Campaigns like ours provide young people and adults with the tools to recognise racism, challenge it, and replace it with understanding. Football clubs are uniquely placed to spread this message, reaching thousands every week through matches, community programmes, and role models on the pitch.
“We are asking supporters not only to reject racist language and behaviour, but to be active anti-racists. That means speaking out when something is wrong, supporting those targeted by abuse, and showing that the true spirit of football is inclusive. Silence allows prejudice to grow; action and solidarity stop it in its tracks.
“Scottish football is enriched by players and coaches from across the world and fans cheer those players. This diversity is not a threat – it is one of the game’s greatest strengths. The range of nationalities on the pitch reflects the reality of modern Scotland: a nation shaped by contributions from people of many backgrounds.
“When we stand together in our stadiums, we show what community really means. Show Racism the Red Card is more than a slogan – it’s about turning words into action
“So this matchday, and every day, let’s make sure that our game is welcoming for everyone. Raise your voice, challenge racism, and show that football fans in Scotland are united.”
Further Information: www.theredcard.org
We were also proud to partner with our charitable arm, Saints in the Community this week to host our annual matchday event to raise awareness for Show Racism The Red Card.
A Perth Friendly Welcome League squad took part in the match against a Saints staff team, including Community Trust staff and several St Johnstone staff members, with familiar faces such as assistant manager Jordi Aluja, performance manager Paavo Valakari and head of goalkeeping Paul Gallacher all taking part.
Investor Chet Arter also joined in for the game, and it was great to see him getting involved! It was an entertaining clash at the Community Arena at McDiarmid Park, finishing 5-4 to the Saints staff team.
Thanks to everyone for taking part.
