Statements from the Brazilian international of Real Madrid in an interview given to the CBF (Brazilian Football Confederation).
Black Awareness Day is not just a symbolic date but a meaningful opportunity to reflect on the struggles and achievements of Black communities worldwide.
The Brazilian international spoke passionately about the importance of this day, highlighting the progress being made and the collective effort to combat racism in football and society. He emphasized how far the fight has come and expressed hope for the future, saying, "Regarding this day, it is very important because of everything we have gone through and also because of everything the CBF has been doing, along with FIFA and all the players. We are united in this fight. The goal is that in the very near future, we can see fewer and fewer cases of racism."
His statement resonates deeply, particularly in the football world, where racial discrimination has been a recurring issue. Organizations like the CBF and FIFA have launched initiatives to address these problems, promoting inclusion and punishing offenders. These efforts are vital in creating an environment where players and fans can focus on the game without the shadow of racism. The Brazilian international’s words reflect his belief in the collective power of such actions to drive significant change.
For the player, this fight is not theoretical; it is personal. Playing in Spain, he has endured racial abuse on several occasions, an experience that has shaped his perspective on the issue. "It’s always good to improve, and I believe we are on the right track. I play in Spain, where I’ve suffered a lot and still sometimes do, but of course, it’s less now thanks to the help of all the clubs and everyone working to combat racism, just like the CBF is doing." His experiences highlight the need for ongoing efforts to address racism, not just through education but also through accountability.
One of the significant advancements in this fight has been holding perpetrators legally accountable for their actions. The player shared a recent milestone, stating, "This has been very important because, in the last three months, we managed to put three or four people in jail and make them pay for the crimes they committed. The faster we can reduce this, the better." Such actions send a strong message that racism will not be tolerated and will have serious consequences. This approach not only deters offenders but also fosters a culture where victims feel supported and empowered to speak out.
He also pointed out the role of technology in discouraging racist behavior, explaining how surveillance and public accountability can create a safer environment. "Even people who are racist will start to fear speaking out when there are cameras, and this will decrease and impact others as well, leading to fewer incidents," he noted. This practical step, combined with the broader efforts of organizations like FIFA and the CBF, represents a multi-faceted approach to tackling the issue.
The player also expressed optimism about the collective strength of the football community in addressing racism. He acknowledged that combating discrimination requires unity and collaboration, saying, "I believe any help is always welcome. Black people have been suffering for a long time, and the time has come for all of this to end." He commended the leadership of FIFA and the CBF, whose influence and resources have been instrumental in this ongoing battle. Their work, coupled with the advocacy of players, has the potential to create lasting change.
Looking to the future, the player shared a hopeful vision for the next generation. "So, we will continue united, strong, and determined, so that in the near future, the children coming after us will have a better life." This message underscores the importance of persistence and solidarity in the fight against racism, ensuring that progress today lays the groundwork for a more equitable future. For him, the fight is not just about addressing current issues but about creating a world where future players and fans can thrive without fear of discrimination.
His reflections on Black Awareness Day and the broader fight against racism serve as a powerful reminder of the work that remains to be done. They also highlight the progress that is possible when players, organizations, and fans come together in solidarity. Football, as a global sport, has the unique ability to unite people and inspire change, and his words stand as both a challenge and a call to action for everyone involved in the game. The fight against racism is far from over, but with continued effort and determination, a brighter, more inclusive future is within reach.
