England defender Jess Carter recently spoke out on social media about experiencing racial abuse while playing in Euros. The Lionesses, NWSL, Gotham FC, UEFA, and the NWSLPA have all released statements in support of Carter.
“From the start of the tournament I have experienced a lot of racial abuse,” Carter wrote. “Whilst I feel every fan is entitled to their opinion on performance and result I don’t agree or think it’s ok to target someone’s appearance or race.
The defender said that she plans to take
a step back from social media in order to focus on the team.
“Hopefully speaking out will make the people writing this abuse think twice so that others won’t have to deal with it,” wrote Carter. “We have made some historic changes with this Lionesses squad that I am so proud to be a part of and my hope is that by speaking out about this it will make another positive change for all. I’m now looking forward and focusing on putting all of my energy into helping my team.”
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Carter struggled in recent games against Sweden and France, where the Lionesses had shaky performances against strong opposition. The team’s next match is a semifinal against Italy on Tuesday.
The Lionesses also announced that they will no longer take the knee before kickoff, a symbolic gesture against racism. Instead, they will look for different ways to challenge racism.
“No one should have to endure such vile abuse, be that in football or any walk of life,” the England team’s statement reads. “Representing our country is the greatest honour. It is not right that while we are doing that, some of us are treated differently simply because of the colour of our skin.”
The statement also says that the FA, England’s football federation, are “working with the UK police and appropriate bodies.”
UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer also offered support. “There is no place for racism in football or anywhere in society. I stand with Jess, the Lionesses, and any players who have suffered racism, on and off the pitch,” said Starmer.
