The Justin Campaign, a campaign launched in memory of Justin Fashanu, the world’s first and only out gay professional football player; is to launch an international day opposing homophobia in football – Football v Homophobia on February 19th 2010. The days intention is to raise awareness of the prevalence of homophobia in the world’s favourite sport and unite individuals, clubs and organisations in working against it.
Community football teams throughout the UK, Europe and America will be showing their support for the cause by holding a series of football matches and fun events throughout the day under the banner of Football v Homophobia. The Justin Campaign’s football team in association with Norwich LGBT Pride Collective will be kicking off the celebrations with a triage of fun community events throughout the day and a football tournament taking place at Carrow park in Norwich on February 19th where Fashanu began his career. Amal Fashanu, John Fashanu’s daughter will be there to open the event with David McNally Chief Executive of Norwich FC attending to show his support.
The launch of Football v Homophobia comes a week after the FA decided to cancel the launch of their anti-homophobia in football video.
John Amaechi, Former NBA basketball player said: "I have been pleased to watch the continued growth of the Justin Campaign, not only because it honours a fantastic football player whose time was cut tragically short, but also because much of the real work to end prejudice and homophobia in sports, must be done by those fans and participants who are actively involved. The hard task of equality is made easier by the involvement of grass-roots organisations like the Justin Campaign. As I examine the FA’s recent anti-homophobia advert debacle, I am saddened to note that their £10,000 budget would have been far better invested in the Justin Campaign."
Despite the postponement of the launch, a number of clubs have stood in support of Football v Homophobia. Tom Harverson, External Affairs Executive at The Football League said: “The Football League welcomes any work that helps to combat homophobia in society. We wish the campaign every success and are delighted that a number of our clubs are backing this initiative.”