Show Racism the Red Card is the UK's leading anti-racism education charity. It works with schools, workplaces, sports clubs and community organisations to help people challenge prejudice, tackle discrimination and break down harmful stereotypes.
The charity was established in January 1996, inspired in part by an experience involving former Newcastle United goalkeeper Shaka Hislop. While at a petrol station near St James' Park in Newcastle, Shaka was subjected to racist abuse from a group of young people. However, when one of them realised they had been directing the abuse at the Newcastle United player, they approached him to ask for an autograph. The incident highlighted how admiration for a sporting hero could overcome prejudice and helped inspire the idea behind Show Racism the Red Card.
Today, Show Racism the Red Card continues to harness the high-profile influence of football and footballers to challenge racism in society. Over the years, its work has expanded beyond football to include a wide range of sports and public figures who support the charity's mission.
A core part of Show Racism the Red Card's work is delivering educational workshops for young people and adults in schools, workplaces and at events, including those hosted at football stadiums. Across the UK, the charity reaches more than 50,000 people every year through its educational programmes and runs the UK's largest equality-themed school competition. In 2023, Show Racism the Red Card achieved a significant milestone, having engaged more than one million people through its educational initiatives since the charity was founded.
Billy Singh, campaign manager from Show Racism the Red Card in Scotland said:
"Reaching our 30th anniversary is a significant milestone for Show Racism the Red Card. While we've made progress over the past three decades, racism continues to affect individuals and communities across Scotland and the UK. The upcoming Weekend of Action is an opportunity for football to come together, send a clear message that racism will not be tolerated, and demonstrate the positive role the game can play in promoting inclusion, respect and equality."
Weekend of Action
Preparations are underway for Show Racism the Red Card's 2026 Weekend of Action, which will see 92 teams from across Scottish football unite to take a stand against racism.
Taking place primarily between 23-25 October 2026, with an opening fixture between Dundee and Rangers on 17 October, the campaign brings together clubs from the Scottish Professional Football League (SPFL), Scottish Women's Premier League (SWPL) and Scottish FA Cup. Supported by PFA Scotland, it will be the charity's largest Weekend of Action to date.
PFA Scotland, Chairperson, Michael Devlin said:
"Players have an influential voice both on and off the pitch, and it is important that we use that platform to promote equality and challenge discrimination. The Weekend of Action gives clubs, players and supporters the opportunity to come together and send a clear message that racism has no place in football. We are proud to support Show Racism the Red Card's biggest Weekend of Action to date."
Throughout the weekend, players will wear Show Racism the Red Card branded bibs during pre-match warm-ups and, alongside match officials, will hold up anti-racism red cards before kick-off. These actions will be supported by stadium announcements, club social media activity and national media coverage, helping to amplify the message that racism has no place in football or wider society.
This year's Weekend of Action is particularly significant as Show Racism the Red Card marks 30 years of anti-racism education and campaigning. Three decades on the message remains clear: racism must be challenged, discrimination must be confronted, and silence must never be mistaken for neutrality.
The campaign takes place against a backdrop of growing concern about racism and harmful narratives targeting minority ethnic communities. At a time when misinformation and division are increasingly visible both online and in public discourse, Scottish football has an important role to play in promoting inclusion, challenging prejudice and demonstrating solidarity.
More than 120,000 supporters attended participating matches during the 2025 Weekend of Action. With 92 teams involved this year, the 2026 campaign provides one of the biggest platforms yet for players, clubs, supporters and communities to come together and show their commitment to tackling racism.
The Weekend of Action is more than a symbolic gesture. It is a visible demonstration of Scottish football's commitment to equality and inclusion, and a reminder that combating racism requires ongoing education, collective action and a willingness to challenge discrimination wherever it occurs.
92 teams. One message. Show Racism the Red Card.
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