United behind Kick It Out

West Ham United are pledging commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion by backing Kick It Out's One Game, One Community week of action which runs until 28 October.

The club is holding its very own day of action on Sunday at the Boleyn Ground as part of a 12-day, nationwide celebration of diversity. Kick It Out, the game's equality and inclusion campaign, is co-ordinating the initiative as part of football's ongoing contribution to promote greater inclusion.

To demonstrate support of the One Game, One Community message West Ham United will give coverage in the club's programme and website, while on Sunday there will be a special half-time performance from the Newham-based Ascension Eagles, one of the UK's most successful youth programs.

West Ham United CEO Scott Duxbury said: "West Ham United are delighted to once again be involved in the One Game, One Community week of action. We are based in one of the most ethnically diverse areas in Europe and we take the issue of equality for all very seriously at every level of the club."

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West Ham United captain Lucas Neill said: "Football is recognised as a universal game played by every colour, creed and race therefore there is no room on the pitch and on the terraces for racism.

"We as players are in a position of leverage have a responsibility to get that message across. Everybody associated with West Ham United takes this campaign very seriously."

The Kick It Out campaign will also be supported on Sunday on the LED boards and video walls around the pitch. On the field of play, the players will be wearing special One Game, One Community T-Shirts during the warm-up - as they have during training this week.

Lord Herman Ouseley, Chairman of Kick It Out, said: "The One Game, One Community weeks of action provides a focal point for everyone connected to football, from supporters to players to stand up against discrimination in all its forms.

"The game flourishes when people from all communities, and from all walks of life, are able to participate in it. Club activity like this reinforces the One Game, One Community ethos and is a vital part of the drive for equality at all levels of the game."

West Ham United's efforts have also seen the club awarded the preliminary level of the Racial Equality Standard. The important initiative, which has been developed by Kick It Out with the support of the Premier League, will help West Ham United to promote equality in all areas of the club's operations, such as stewarding to the recruitment of young players.