Rangers fans have responded after the club provided a significant update on their battle against online abuse [Rangers.co.uk].
Gers players and staff are currently boycotting social media in protest at a ‘lack of accountability and responsibility’ from major players in the industry.
Kemar Roofe and Glen Kamara both received abuse following Rangers’ Europa League Last 16 second-leg clash against Slavia Prague last month and skipper James Tavernier subsequently asserted that every black player in the squad has been a victim of racial abuse at some point this season [Sky Sports].
The club wants to see meaningful changes made online and provided an update on Wednesday after meeting with two giants of the industry, Facebook and Instagram.
“We outlined our strong belief that social media companies should make it mandatory to provide identification before being able to obtain an account,” read the main section of the club’s statement [Rangers.co.uk].
“Furthermore, we outlined that young people should be educated and empowered to ensure future generations understand the gravity and impact of their online actions. This is a responsibility of social media platforms, but we highlighted that as a club, we are willing to assist.
“As a club, we are proud of the success of our ground-breaking Everyone Anyone campaign which sends a clear message of inclusion, togetherness and zero-tolerance to all forms of discrimination on and off the pitch.
“We are grateful for this initial dialogue and look forward to a constructive ongoing engagement.”
Rangers supporters are delighted to see the club taking direct action in an attempt to protect players and staff.
It’s key that the Gers keep up the fight and that other clubs follow, as meaningful change is only likely if substantial and sustained pressure is put on the social media giants.
Here’s a selection of reactions to the statement from fans on Twitter:
https://twitter.com/Robkanecomedian/status/1382405731429847040
Meanwhile, Darren Bent, Gary Lineker and Ian Wright have all given their reactions to UEFA’s verdicts on the Kamara – Kudela case.
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