Source: Northern_Echo
Quinn stands firm on racism
NIALL QUINN has reaffirmed Sunderland's commitment to stamping out racism after a difficult week that has seen a football fan arrested on suspicion of racially abusing the mother of Black Cats striker Darren Bent.[LNB] A 26-year-old Chester-le- Street man was arrested on Monday evening and questioned in connection with an alleged incident in the aftermath of Sunderland's 1-0 defeat at Wigan.[LNB] Police are investigating allegations Bent's mother, Shirley, was racially abused by a Sunderland supporter as she waited to be served in a Wigan pub after the game.[LNB] Legal proceedings prevent Sunderland officials from commenting on the specifics of the case, but Quinn has urged Black Cats fans to support the club's commitment to equality and inclusion.[LNB] Racism is not just an issue for football or sport, said the Sunderland chairman. It's something that society as a whole must tackle, but we can use the power of football as a catalyst for change.[LNB] Look at the diversity of the Premier League. There are players from every continent and, here at Sunderland, we have players from a whole host of countries.[LNB] Their ethnic origin or cultural background is irrelevant, but what is important is the great team spirit they share and their love for our football club.[LNB] There is no place for racism of any kind within the game and our wider community, and this is a fundamental belief that I know Sunderland supporters share with me.[LNB] Sunderland were recently honoured by national antiracism group, Kick It Out.[LNB] The Equality Standard attempts to ensure that individuals are not discriminated against on grounds of race, religion, gender, age, disability or sexual orientation.[LNB] This sets Sunderland's work on diversity and equality as amongst the best in the Premier League, said Kick It Out director Piara Powar.[LNB]
