Italy has taken significant steps on helping to reduce the occurrence of racism and anti-Semitism from their stadiums
Italy has taken a significant step towards eliminating anti-Semitism from its stadiums by signing a letter of intent on Tuesday.
Racism and anti-Semitism are frequently observed in Italian stadiums, where fans commonly engage in booing or verbally attacking Black players, using derogatory language like “Jew” and showcasing symbols associated with Nazi or fascist ideologies.
During the signing ceremony in Rome, Italy’s Interior Minister Matteo Piantedosi praised the initiative as a significant contribution to the sport of soccer. The ceremony also included Italy’s sports minister and the President of the Italian Football Federation.
The announcement will prohibit soccer players from using the number 88, which is associated with the ‘Heil Hitler’ salute, and also ban any symbols that remind of Nazism.
The text states that there will be a requirement for fans to use non-discriminatory language at public events and guidelines will be established on how to halt matches in instances of discrimination.
Previously, the Jewish community has called on Italian sports authorities to take stronger action against anti-Semitism in stadiums.
In the city derby match between Lazio and Roma last March, a fan displayed a Lazio shirt with the name ‘Hitlerson’ and the number 88, while two other supporters made ‘Roman salutes’, which are linked to fascism.
“…Is it possible that everyone keeps ignoring this?,” questioned Ruth Dureghello, the President of Rome’s Jewish Community, in a tweet. She was referring to the images and videos that were widely shared on social media after the game.
Lazio subsequently announced that the three supporters would face a lifelong ban from attending any matches held at the Stadio Olimpico.
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