IT WAS 30 years ago on a cold autumn night when former Newcastle United goalkeeper Shaka Hislop stopped at a petrol station near St James’ Park and was confronted by a group of young people shouting racist abuse at him. 

After they got closer, one of the group realised that they had been shouting at one of their own, and their approach suddenly switched from abuse to admiration. 

And after Hislop sent a letter of support and a £50 donation to a local anti-racism organisation, it was a moment that helped inspire the campaign. 

Thirty years later, it has become the leading anti-racism educational charity in Scotland. 

With the power of football able to help educate, challenge attitudes and create change, Show Racism the Red Card’s workshops in schools, football clubs, workplaces and communities have reached more than 1.5 million learners across the UK, including 250,000 in Scotland. 

Keeping the game welcoming and inclusive is a responsibility we all share – players, clubs, supporters and communities, and Hibs are committed to tackling racism and ensuring equity, diversity and inclusion are at the heart of everything they do. 

This weekend the club will continue to proudly support Show Racism the Red Card during upcoming Men’s and Women’s matches against Celtic on Sunday October 25. 

Billy Singh, Campaign Manager from Show Racism the Red Card in Scotland, said: “Football has always been more than a game. It brings people together across communities, cities, and nations. In Scotland, our clubs and our supporters have a proud tradition of passion, loyalty, and pride. But football also has a responsibility: to stand firmly against racism and discrimination, both on and off the pitch. 

“Recent events show that prejudice and division remain present in society. When voices seek to divide us, football must provide the opposite example – one of unity, respect, and solidarity. The message from our game should be clear: there is no place for racism in our stadiums, in our communities, or in our country. 

“Show Racism the Red Card exists because education and action are vital. Campaigns like ours provide young people and adults with the tools to recognise racism, challenge it, and replace it with understanding. Football clubs are uniquely placed to spread this message, reaching thousands every week through matches, community programmes, and role models on the pitch. 

“We are asking supporters not only to reject racist language and behaviour but also to be active anti-racists. That means speaking out when something is wrong, supporting those targeted by abuse, and showing that the true spirit of football is inclusive. Silence allows prejudice to grow; action and solidarity stop it in its tracks. 

“Scottish football is enriched by players and coaches from across the world, and fans cheer those players. This diversity is not a threat – it is one of the game’s greatest strengths. The range of nationalities on the pitch reflects the reality of modern Scotland: a nation shaped by contributions from people of many backgrounds. 

“When we stand together in our stadiums, we show what community really means. Show Racism the Red Card is more than a slogan – it’s about turning words into action. 

“So this matchday, and every day, let’s make sure that our game is welcoming for everyone. Raise your voice, challenge racism, and show that football fans in Scotland are united.”