United Against Racism

Football connects people in an inimitable way. Unique goals, incredible moves, raw emotion – there are countless factors that make football so thrilling for us all. However, there are also repeatedly scenes which leave us reeling is disbelief. We're not referring to goals conceded in the last minute or the relegation of our favourite team; we're talking about racism and hate, regardless of whether it’s on the pitch, in the stands or on the Internet. These are actions and words which are deeply against our values and have no place in our sport – because football stands first and foremost for mutual respect, fair play and solidarity, regardless of ancestry, religion, skin colour or any other features. This is the way, the only way, it should be.

Just as we can only win as a team, racism and discrimination can only be overcome together. It is therefore important not to look the other way, but to defend all the values that football stands for – openly, loudly and proudly – both during the International Weeks Against Racism and every day thereafter. "Solidarity. Unbounded." That's the motto for the International Weeks Against Racism, which will take place from 15 to 28 March this year. 

The International Weeks Against Racism originate from a decision taken by the general assembly of the United Nations. They serve to remind us of the "Sharpeville massacre" on 21 March 1960, during which South African police shot 69 peaceful protesters to death in the township of Sharpeville. Several thousand clubs, organisations, schools, religious groups and sporting associations across Germany and the whole of Europe support the campaign every year in order to publicly take a stand against racism and for civil rights and solidarity. We stand together – against racism and for 100% human dignity. Because there's no such thing as a bit of human dignity. TSG Hoffenheim wholeheartedly supports this campaign.