Show Racism the Red Card Hall of Fame 2025

On Monday, No. 10 Downing Street hosted Show Racism the Red Card’s (SRtRC) Hall of Fame event, honouring football clubs and individuals who have championed anti-racism efforts through the power of the sport.

This marked the first SRtRC Hall of Fame induction in nearly nine years, with Arsenal FC, Portsmouth FC, Sunderland AFC, and Bolton Wanderers FC being recognised for their commitment to driving social change. The event highlighted football’s unique ability to challenge prejudice, promote inclusivity, and inspire young people.

Shaka Hislop, SRtRC’s founder and honorary president, delivered a powerful speech reflecting on the charity’s journey and the critical role of football clubs in combating racism:

“As much as we at Show Racism the Red Card have always used football players – their stories and experiences – as the foundation of our work, none of this would have been possible without the support of clubs.

Arsenal, Bolton, Portsmouth, and Sunderland have gone above and beyond, leveraging their facilities, reach, and influence to support not just their fans, but communities across the UK.

Their induction into the Hall of Fame is a fitting tribute to their impact on and off the pitch.”

In addition to the 4 football clubs that were welcomed into SRtRC’s Hall of Fame, individual awards were also given to the following SRtRC Patrons:

• Dave Palmer
• Charlotte Potts
• David O’Leary
• Kieron Achara
• Terry Angus
• Anita Asante
• Ben Cajee
• Perry Groves
• Lisa McLaughlin
• Steve Howey

The event concluded with the Overall Winner of England’s 2025 School Competition, Neriah Muhelele, delivering her powerful spoken-word entry.

Her moving words resonated deeply with everyone present, showcasing the profound impact of SRtRC’s presence. She reminded us all that young people possess the awareness and power to shape a better future, fuelling our anti-racism commitment. 

Danny Mills, SRtRC Trustee, reflects on the event:

“The Hall of Fame event at Downing Street was an amazing example of just how powerful Show Racism the Red Card is as an organisation.

It was incredible to be surrounded by so many influential people all fighting for the same cause in a venue which is so iconic. After hearing the various speeches on the day I was encouraged and humbled by the work the organisation does and hope that our fight for anti racism on the curriculum is a step closer.

When I heard Neriah’s poem, like many I was very moved by her words and the emotion as she spoke. The poem was a worthy winner and I know it inspired everyone who had the privilege of listening to it.”

Beyond the awards and reception, the event was also a reminder of the importance of education in tackling racism. Over the years, SRtRC has engaged thousands of young people, using football as a tool to challenge prejudice and encourage understanding. The impact of our work is clear – it sparks conversation, shifts perspectives, and empowers the next generation to stand against discrimination.

To continue this vital mission, ongoing support is essential. The commitment from clubs and patrons is inspiring, but sustainable, nationwide anti-racism education requires investment. With the right funding, SRtRC could expand its reach, bringing essential lessons on equality and inclusion to more schools, communities, and young people across the UK.

This event was more than a celebration – it should serve as a turning point and a call to action. With government support, intent can be transformed into impact, ensuring that anti-racism education is not merely an aspiration but a national priority. By investing in anti-racism education, we are not only shaping the present but laying the foundation for a future where equality is deeply embedded in society.

Chief Executive of SRtRC, Ged Grebby shares:

“As an anti-racism charity we rely on the support of a whole range of organisations and individuals to get our important anti-racism message across. The use of Football Club’s as a venue for our educational events has proved incredibly popular over the last 29 years and the Hall of Fame is a way of thanking the clubs who have made an outstanding contribution to our work. The individuals in the Hall of Fame have given decades of support to our charity and this is our way of saying thank you for their outstanding contributions to anti-racism education.”

To help us continue to spread our crucial anti-racism education services across the UK, show your support by donating here.