Howard Gayle

[Love]

Former Liverpool FC player Howard Gayle turns down MBE nomination

 

Footballer said accepting accolade would be "a betrayal" to Africans who died or suffered as a result of the British Empire

 

 

Former Liverpool FC player Howard Gayle revealed he has turned down an MBE nomination.

The Toxteth -born footballer, who became LFC’s first black player in 1977, posted on his Facebook page to let fans know about his decision.

He wrote: “Most of you who are on my FB page are aware of the work that I do tackling racism and the work I do for Show Racism A Red Card.

“And for that work yesterday I was nominated for a MBE.

 

 

“Which unfortunately I had to decline the nomination for the reason that my ancestors would be turning in their graves after how empire and colonialism had enslaved them.

“This is a decision that I have had to make and there will be others who may feel different and would enjoy the attraction of being a Member of the British Empire and those 3 letters after their name, but I feel that It would be a betrayal to all of the Africans who have lost their lives , or who have suffered as a result of empire.”

 

 

His decision was praised by fans who commented on the post.

Janet Hodge wrote: “Respect you even more for refusing it and keeping to your principles. A fake award system anyway good on you.

 

Kathleen O’Connor said: “I am very proud that you stand by your principles, of course it is a credit to you that your work is acknowledged at all levels but I am sure that does not concern you.”

 

 

Margaret Wynne said: “Well done you for being a man of principle. Always remember where you come from and those who died for what you have.

“I truly respect you for what you have done and what you will do to tackle racism, whether in sport or everyday life. Be proud of yourself and your heritage.”

 

http://www.liverpoolecho.co.uk/news/liverpool-news/former-liverpool-fc-player-howard-11733642

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