German Football plans anti-discrimination campaign

The German Football League (DFL) has announced a day of action in which all Bundesliga clubs will take a stand against discrimination and for the solidarity of society.

The initiative will span the match day from March 16 through March 19 in both the Bundesliga and the 2. Bundesliga.

“With the message ‘Cross out prejudices,’ professional football is taking a clear stance against the dividing forces in our society,” DFL executive Christian Seifert said at a news conference unveiling the campaign in Frankfurt.

“Bundesliga is predestined because, after more than 55 years, it’s a point of reference for many people regardless of age, sex, salary, colour or religion.”

Frankfurt midfielder Kevin-Prince Boateng, also speaking at the news conference, pointed out that he has taken a clear stance against discrimination in the past.

“Everyone knows how serious I am about this,” said Boateng, who, while with AC Milan in 2012-13, walked off the pitch after being the target of racial abuse in a friendly.

“People must not be subjected to abuse or excluded because of colour, religion or sexuality,” he said.