Bradford City FC: Growing new fan base

There was a time when Asians and Black people in general had very good reason to fear if they ventured to a big city football match. Yet, a young Asian female Bradford city fan wearing a hijab was noted to be rather vehemently supporting her club Tuesday night, heckling the opposition as a die-hard supporter might.

It can only be seen as refreshing that despite being in often racialized part of England coupled with ongoing unsavoury stories associated with the beautiful game, there is a bright ray of emerging hope. Why is this particular fan so noteworthy?

Even putting aside the fact that there doesn’t seem to be a month that goes by, without some player, fan or official engendering racial offence , this young woman is flying in the face of all the nay-Sayers boldly brandishing her right to jeer at the rivals of her favoured team, with her own Muslim identity proudly on show for all to see . Thus, conveying a powerful message that football matches are no place for prejudice, no longer solely a ‘white man’s’ game. That regardless of race, gender or religion everyone has an equal right to all resources, recreational or otherwise that this great nation has to offer.

I’m sure this young woman was not concerned with, nor aware of the ramifications her mid-week trip to the big match would have. But is was unwittingly bold and brave.

Though this can be regarded as a small thing, it bears testimony to the fact that fortitude and resolute refusal to comply with bigotry. Positive change in society is often encapsulated by the actions of those who run against perceived ways. We celebrate you, and look forward to seeing you and your friends at more Bradford City matches. Only then will others follow suit.

Ashlea Williams