Premier League players representing all 20 clubs will continue their protest against racism by taking a knee in the 2021-22 season.Since June 2020, players and staff have taken a knee before kick-off to show support for the movement for race equality.Premier League players and match officials wore 'No Room for Racism' badges on shirts to support the decision.In a statement, the Premier League players stated that they felt it was important to continue to kneel as a symbol for unity against racism."We are resolutely committed towards our singular goal of eliminating racial prejudice wherever that exists, in order to create a global society of inclusion and respect for all."England players were booed when they took the knee in pre Euro 2020 friendlies, but they continued to make anti-racism gestures throughout their run to final.Richard Masters, chief executive of the Premier League, stated that "The Premier League and our clubs, players, and match officials have a long-standing dedication to combat racism and other forms discrimination.""Following our club Captains' meeting that was reaffirmed, that collective commitment to the players was reaffirmed. The Premier League will continue its support for the players' strong voice regarding this important issue."Racism of any kind is unacceptable. No Room For Racism outlines our zero tolerance policy. To bring about real change in our game, the Premier League will continue working with our football partners, clubs and players.Wilfried Zaha, Crystal Palace forward, was the first Premier League player not to take a knee prior to games last season. He said that he found the act "degrading."Brentford, who opened the Premier League campaign against Arsenal in August 13, decided to stop taking a knee prior to games because it didn't have the desired impact.This will be the first weekend in a row that the Premier League season's opening weekend is open to full attendance since the outbreak of the coronavirus pandemic.The English Football League also offered its support to any player, staff member or employee who wants to take a knee prior to games this season.Report racism with Kick It OutKick It OutKick It Out, the football equality and inclusion organization, works across all football sectors, including education and community, to combat discrimination and promote inclusive practices, and advocate for positive change.www.kickitout.orgWe will work together to ensure that all our social media accounts are safe.We won't let hatred stop us from celebrating sport for everyone and every sport.
