Herbert Hainer: “Strong message from our FC Bayern family”

Shirts in dazzling colours of diversity, intensive exchange at workshops with different perspectives and a playful togetherness under the sign of different sports – the “Reds against Racism” (sports) action weekend "Red against Racism" at the FC Bayern Campus was very well received. “This action weekend was a strong message from our FC Bayern family. Several hundred visitors stopped by the FC Bayern Campus,” said president Herbert Hainer. “On the one hand, we were able to provide a substantive discussion on the topic of racism and exclusion with workshops, information stands and exhibitions. On the other hand, we showed how sport can be used to strengthen togetherness and overcome borders together. It was educational and relaxed at the same time - something for young and old.”

At the weekend at close out the ‘International Weeks against Racism’, the theme of open-mindedness was to be transported beyond racism. Therefore, the workshops and exhibitions dealt with exclusions of all kinds. Educational scientist Jennifer Danquah explained how to deal with racism, Guy Fränkel (board member of the Jewish Community Munich) spoke about the effects of anti-Semitism. With “Afro Youth Munich” and black role model Lise-Christine “Lizzy” Kobla Mendama, the visitors colourfully designed shirts (available in the FC Bayern fan shops and online. Proceeds go to institutions that work for diversity and tolerance). At an information stand, visitors could discuss the topic of tolerance and homophobia with the “Queerpass Bayern” fan club.

Especially in view of the situation in Ukraine, it was also nice that refugees from the war zone were integrated into the sporting activities. The various FC Bayern departments had created tournaments and challenges in football, basketball, table tennis and chess, and the club’s referees provided the officials in football. The “Buntkicktgut” initiative was also in action, and at the end of the weekend the FC Bayern Women made their mark once again with a centre circle banner, corner flags and Lina Magull's captain's armband during their 4-0 home victory against SGS Essen.

“I would like to thank everyone who was there: Our fans, our partners at workshops and activities, and our athletes from all departments of FC Bayern,” said Hainer. “This weekend we have once again seen what is possible in our world. Racism has no leeway with us. Intolerance in general has no leeway with us. FC Bayern stands for togetherness and diversity. And we will emphasise again and again: Reds against racism!”

FC Bayern once again set an example for solidarity and diversity to mark 'International Weeks against Racism':