NEW YORK - The World Jewish Congress (WJC) has praised the Chelsea Football Club for its new educational campaign aimed at raising awareness of the persisting phenomenon of anti-Semitism in sports. The WJC is partnering with Chelsea in developing and promoting the long-term campaign, which was announced on Tuesday under the leadership of club owner Roman Abramovich, and will be launched officially on 31 January at the Premier League game against Bournemouth at Stamford Bridge Stadium.
“The World Jewish Congress deeply appreciates the comprehensive efforts being made by the Chelsea Football Club to raise awareness of the dangerous manifestations of anti-Semitism and racism in sport, and we are proud to partner going forward in pursuing this important initiative,” said World Jewish Congress CEO and Executive Vice President Robert Singer. “The value of one of the most prominent sports clubs in the world vigorously leading the charge in addressing this crucial issue, cannot be overstated.”
Singer added: "This is a phenomenon that must be forcefully counteracted, and it will take great efforts to ensure that these demonstrations stay off the football pitch and its stands, as anti-Semitism regularly does not stop there. Education is key to these efforts, and we encourage clubs and organizations in every field to emulate and embrace the initiatives being undertaken by Chelsea to make it clear that hatred has no place in sport."
Chelsea Football Club owner Roman Abramovich told the World Jewish Congress upon announcing the campaign on Tuesday: “With people around the world observing International Holocaust Memorial Day later this month, we are reminded that there is still much to be done in the fight against anti-Semitism. That’s why I am proud to have launched, together with Chelsea Football Club, this initiative to challenge antisemitism in all its forms.”
“I am very impressed by the important work the World Jewish Congress is doing in this area and am delighted, therefore, with the partnership we have entered into to jointly raise awareness of antisemitism in sport and together making an effort to tackle it,” Abramovich said.
To follow the World Jewish Congress' We Remembeber Campaign: https://www.worldjewishcongress.org/en/weremember
For more information on the Chelsea Football Club’s campaign: http://www.chelseafc.com/the-club/foundation/foundation-community/foundation-building-bridges.html
