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Muslim World Cup Fans Urged to "Give Example"
Where do I get one of the shirts in the photo?BERLIN, May 25 , 2006 With right-wing groups charging batteries to provoke Muslim teams taking part in the FIFA World Cup, to kick off on June 9, Muslim fans are urged not to fall into the trap and to serve as an example. A German Muslim website has exhorted Muslim football supporters to take into their strides provocations by right-wingers. "Muslim fans should give an example of Muslim behavior and enjoy the contests no matter what the results are," wrote the muslimmarkt website. The website urged Muslim fans to report any law violations to the police. "The far right-wingers are out to provoke the fans to cause riots, particularly during the matches of the Iranian team." T-shirts emblazoned with anti-Muslim slurs are already been circulated by far rightists. One of these T-shirts reads "Islamophobic And Proud Of It". The football gala runs from June 9th through July 9 with 32 teams competing for the prestigious trophy. Anti-Iran Days before the world event, German right-wing groups have already mobilized to harass Muslim teams in the Mondial. The Iranians are the main focus of the campaign. Right-wing groups are encouraging supporters to flock to Iran's matches and use Israeli flags in supporting any team playing against the Islamic republic. Israeli flags are being delivered to the homes of those interested at 25 euros per piece. Iran plays in Group D with Mexico, Angola and Portugal. The team will have its first encounter against Mexico on June 11. Other Muslim teams taking part in the competition are Saudi Arabia and Tunisia. Anti-Racism Day Meanwhile, FIFA has set plans to stage an anti-racism day during the World Cup to demonstrate opposition to racism and discrimination. The action, coordinated with the tournament's organizing committee, will take place during the quarter-finals on June 30 and July 1. Television ads and a huge round banner draped over the center circle at each of the 12 World Cup stadiums are also planned as part of the anti-racism campaign. Bearing the World Cup motto "A Time to Make Friends," the World Cup logo "Germany 2006 " and the slogan "Say No to Racism," the banners will be displayed at each of the 64 matches until shortly before kick-off. "The aim is to send a clear message to the world against racism," the organizing committee said. Posted by: ryuge 2006-05-26 |
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