#SayNoToRacism: Investigations against claim of racial abuse at Chelsea academy
The ghost of racist discrimination does not seem to leave Chelsea behind, as new reports have surfaced of racially-aggravated assault within the club's academy from the 1970s-90s. These allegations have arisen in succession after Raheem Sterling was racially abused by Chelsea supporters and a section of the club's fans sang racially-charged songs during their Europa League match against Hungarian club Vidi. Details follow.
Details of the allegation and the ongoing investigations
A youth player of Chelsea has reportedly complained to the Metropolitan Police in light of the recent incidences of racism that were seen being practiced by a section of the Blues' fans. The police have confirmed receiving "an allegation of non-recent racially-aggravated assault in September 2018". However, no arrests have been made yet and the police did not name the complainant.
Racial abuse at Chelsea academy was reported in May 2018
A former player of the club's academy, Damien Wynter, alleged in May this year that ex-coach Gwyn Williams was overtly racist towards him during his time at the club, and this filtered down to his teammates who discriminated against him based on his skin color. Another ex-coach, Graham Rix, was also charged by other players and the total number of victims were eight then.
The club has pledged full support and cooperation
Chelsea, naturally shaken and stirred by this recurrent problem of racism within its fans and now within its own employees, have come out to say that they are willing to cooperate with the investigation completely. Their statement also states that such complaints are taken very seriously by the club and they shall help the victim with counselling if he needs so.
Why sudden increase in racism among Chelsea fans?
Chelsea were notorious for their fanbase displaying attributes of violence and discrimination. English football itself has had a history of violence against opposition supporters, but it boils down to the white man not yet being able to accept someone is as good or even better than him. Anti-racism campaigner Piara Powar believes the Brexit referendum and its after-effects have had a role to play.
Chelsea have been taking steps to deal with the issue
Chelsea had suspended the four fans charged with abusing Raheem Sterling indefinitely before the investigations are over. Chelsea had taken certain fans and officials to Auschwitz in October to give them an educational tour on the harmful effects of anti-Semitism. They are also now extremely cautious in handing out tickets for away fixtures to avoid any unwarranted incidents.
