By Kyle Murphy

Anti-racism charity Show Racism the Red Card held its annual Wear Red Day to continue its fight against prejudice and discrimination against those in racial or ethnic groups. It was a special day for the organisation, as this year marked the 10th anniversary of the celebratory day. Wear Red Day encourages people to wear red and support the campaign’s work to fight racism. 

With over 600,000 participants celebrating this historic day, Show Racism the Red Card has been overwhelmed by the number of people helping out. However, the charity isn’t stopping there. They hope to take participation levels to 1 million next year to have the strength and power to highlight how important a cause this is. 

Gartcairn Women’s Kaela McDonald-Nguah helps out with charity by promoting the message they hope to reach the wider community. She discussed how she got involved with Show Racism the Red Card and the importance of the work they do.

She said: “I got involved not long after 2020 when a lot of things were happening including the Black Lives Matter Movement. I’ve done some sessional work with the campaign and it’s something I feel very passionate about and enjoy doing. 

“Not having that representation when I was growing up was a bit of a barrier so for people like me working with the campaign, I think it’s really important to do the work that I do.”

As a younger player, McDonald-Nguah has felt that learning from the situations she has faced in the past has helped her grow as a person, both mentally and emotionally.

When asked about the support she receives from her family and the footballing community, she said: “I didn’t realise at the time how big an impact these experiences had on me but when I’m lucky enough to have grown up in a community where I can look for help or advice.

“Most of my coaches, I’ve always had a good experience with and I think even role models that I haven’t met were always a big support. Rachel Yankey was one of the first players who I saw where I felt I was represented in the football community and they have had a big impact on my career.”

The United Kingdom has been faced with a lot of racial tension this year, with far-right marches taking place in England. This is one of the many issues that Show Racism the Red Card is trying to combat, with this year’s riots highlighting how important the campaign is in this country. 

McDonald-Nguah discussed how the effects of these riots will be useful in informing people of the current problems which will hope to reinforce equality amongst local communities. 

She said: “It’s not the first stumbling block the campaign has experienced when speaking to those who have seen other instances elsewhere.

“Every year is massive for us and I believe that after these riots, it will be very important in terms of educating people on why it is essential to embrace people regardless of their race or religion.”

Many clubs across Scotland will be showing their support for Show Racism the Red Card this weekend, highlighting the dedication and hardwork that is being targeted towards fighting discrimination. Although the charity will feel there is so much still to do, the endless work they do has been beneficial to many groups in our communities as it breaks down more barriers.