Today, we recognize Martin Luther King, Jr. Day in honor of his contributions to human and civil rights in the United States. King's impact can be felt in many facets of of our lives including our schools, where we work, our Presidency and yes, even soccer.
King and other civil rights leaders changed our nation so I can take my children to a club or international soccer match in the United States without seeing huge signs and banners displaying pro-racist and Nazi slogans. Is our soccer and sports culture free of racism? No, I don't think it is. But after watching this video on racism in European soccer I do feel very thankful to Dr. King.
Here in Corvallis, we have seen a rapid and still growing integration of Hispanic and Caucasian cultures on the soccer fields during the last few years. Yea, we still have some work to do, but different people coming together to play soccer is a huge step in the right direction in my opinion.
Have you noticed cultural divides fading away in our local youth and adult soccer programs?
Monday, January 19, 2009
Posted by Loyan |
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I was surprised to find that this ESPN report was a pile of garbage. Certainly the facts are correct, but it seemed like the narrator has the attitude that America is better, that there is no racism in sports in America - both statements, of course, are ludicrous.
Also, Thierry Henry is pretty awesome.
Thanks for commenting Dennis. I agree that the video gives an anti-european impression. Americans kinda like to hate on Europe and I admit I do it myself. Much of our soccer media caters to that. Ever hear Jim Rome talk about soccer. Funny stuff.
You might enjoy reading about my experience scolding an AP writer on his article about US soccer. http://blog.corvallissoccerblog.com/2006/05/plucky-wont-do-for-us-soccer-anymore.html
American sports is not free of racism on a micro or macro level. But I dont think we would put up with Paulo DiCanio's fascist antics or see bananas thrown at Tiger Woods during a tee shot. In part because of Dr. King we are better off than that.
Henry is totally awesome for leading the campaign against racism in soccer. A courageous man. He is also hitting his stride with Barcelona lately.
Loyan, thanks for the link. I think I've been following your blog long enough to have read that when you first posted it =)
I will agree - the level of blatant, overt racism isn't comparable. But trumpeting that fact allows US sports reporters to ignore any other racism or discrimination that may be taking place in the US, or to pretend it's not racism at all just because it doesn't look like the crap that happens in Europe. Plus, you know, the whole 'American sports are better' attitude gets to this soccer fan. Soccer is clearly superior...
Henry, yeah, my goodness. That last game against Deportivo in particular - that cross that Henry headed in was incredible. Barcelona as a whole is just unbelievable right now.
Also, you got linked to by The Offside in their Daily Dose! Congrats!
Yeah! "European soccer needs MLK"
http://www.theoffside.com/world-football/daily-dose-jan-21st-2009.html
Loyan thanks for sharing this useful link
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