The United Nations has invited AC Milan’s and Ghanaian international Kevin-Prince Boateng to its International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination in the world.
The United Nations International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination is observed annually on the 21st of March to honor 69 people who were killed in Sharpeville, South Africa for demonstrating against apartheid laws passed by the then South African apartheid government.
The Ghanaian international walked off the pitch during a match at lower division side with Pro Patria on 3 January after being racially abused by the home fans and his team-mates followed him and the match was abandoned.
AC Milan said on their club website said that the event will take place at the National Building in Geneva, Switzerland and will concentrate on racism in sport.
Boateng has been widely praised for his actions which include Rio Ferdinand, Vincent Kompany and Nigel de Jong all voicing their support for him abandoning the match.
However, Serie A’s disciplinary commissioner said no action would be taken against Boateng or the club for abandoning the match since it was based on reasonable grounds.
“In footballing terms, no team can abandon a game out of their own choice, it must be down to the referee who makes this decision or public authorities,” the commissioner said.
“However, if a player is being racially insulted and his team-mates show solidarity by supporting their team-mate, the essential value of sports and civility mean the club cannot be penalized for this reason, the judge will not issue any punishment to Milan”, he concluded.
But FIFA President Sepp Blatter said abandoning a match because of racism is not the best enough or a tool to fight the problem and therefore wants him to take part in this year campaign.
Issaka Adams / NationalTurk African Sports News
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