June 17 – Concacaf is using the 2019 Gold Cup to push its diversity and inclusion campaign – ‘Let’s Live in a State of Goal!’ – among fans and other members of the football community.
“The biggest-ever edition of our premier tournament is a powerful platform to unite thousands of fans who share the love for our game, in a unique celebration of football, pride and cultural diversity,” said Concacaf President Victor Montagliani.
“We stand against all forms of discrimination and are committed to continue raising awareness on diversity, equality and access, while ensuring that the fan experience is safe and inclusive across the board.”
The initiative immediately had an issue to confront with Mexican fans again resorting to their ‘puta’ chant behind the Cuban goal on Saturday at the Rose Bowl whenever the Cuban keeper took a goal kick.
The diversity initiative was launched at the 2017 edition of the competition and sees Concacaf working with key stakeholders on education and actions promoting acceptance and respect in and around its Gold Cup matches.
The programme includes awareness messages on TV, radio and online, designed to promote and create an environment in which fans and others attending matches can more readily enjoy the Gold Cup events.
Concacaf has introduced a protocol announcement before every match and at half time concerning abusive, sexist, racial, obscene and disruptive language or inappropriate behaviour. The focus is on targeting “inappropriate behaviour that can negatively impact the stadium experience for some of the diverse groups of fans who enjoy football across the region,” said a Concacaf statement.
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