Missed this yesterday - good article Bluey, and one that deserves a response. Sadly, I feel this whole issue is fraught with problems. Some eastern European nations have a long history of racism - even toward their own kind within. Ethnic cleansing wasn't fiction. As far as the colour of someone's skin is concerned, those of a darker hue sometimes react disproportionately to taunts. That's not to say that inciting racism isn't abhorrent and it should be stamped out. This whole racism thing is a two-fold problem. We need to address different issues. Internationally, you'll never stamp out historical bigotry - it's etched in stone and the only remedy seems to rely on national or club sanctions from the football governing bodies. Internally, and in Britain in particular, it's a "skin colour" thing and far less of a problem although unpleasant for the recipient of the abuse to say the least. It's way past time to eradicate this cancer from the pitch and the terraces, but maybe it's also time for some of the offended complainers to grow a pair and treat it with the disdain it deserves. Forming a "skin colour" union, even if it's still under the umbrella of the PFA could prove more divisive rather than solve the problem.
In agreement with the majority. Such a move would be devisive and lead to other minority groups to splinter and weaken the PFA. I do admire the black players who protested because now the PFA might not be so imputent in the future. When hooliganism/racism was rife amongst English clubs in the 80's they were banned from European football,so as far as I can see a precedent has already been set and the Serbs should be banned for a substantial period of time. Individual players such as Terry should be hit hard in the pocket and again banned for a season if appropriate. All players should be given equal treatment not special treatment.
Perhaps they should start a ginger union as well. Not sure there'd be many joineres though. Burke and Kitson could be founder members. Seriously though, in this day and age there is no excuse. In years gone by there was a degree of ignorance in the masses which allowed the 'minority' to express their prejudices loudly. We don't have the excuses of our parents and grandparents who were maybe ill informed or apathetic to the situation, but in this more enlightened and communication rich society, there are no reasons to tolerate this. There should be no need for a union which could actually create as many problems as it solves.
My two pen'orth.....it has got to be wrong to start any form of splinter group, whether within or without the main group. The whole concept of unionism is group strength and solidarity. You start to splinter it up and the greatest asset (unity) is gone. it's not called a 'union' for nothing. if you don't beleive me, ask Roy Link
Think that if the English FA did not take so much time in the Terry v Ferdinand case this would not have been left to fester . Also the punishment they have dealt out is just a joke .
