The Champions for Peace, an international group of high level sportspeople, have officially launched the 2021 #WhiteCard campaign. Under the motto “Behind each #WhiteCard, there is a story” they invite everyone to join peace-though-sport movement by sharing #WhiteCard pictures and testimonies on social media.
Holding up a white card, just like a referee, is now recognized as the symbol of the peace-through-sport movement. In contrast to the red card, which signifies the most serious offence in sport, the #WhiteCard symbolizes inclusion, equality and peace. In the context of the ongoing pandemic, the #WhiteCard has now become an expression of unity and solidarity through sport.
Every year the #WhiteCard campaign reaches millions of people through social media, and participating is as easy as 1-2-3!
1. Snap a pic of yourself (or with your friends) with a #WhiteCard. Hold up a #WhiteCard just like a referee on a playing field, the more creative your photo, the better!
2. Post your photo on social media with the hashtag #WhiteCard
3. Spread the word. Join the global conversation and invite your friends to participate.
In a video message, Champions for Peace Didier Drogba, Laurence Fischer, Marlène Harnois, Siya Kolisi, Jean-Baptiste Alaize, Tony Estanguet, Pascal Gentil, Paula Radcliffe and Sarah Ourahmoune explained what the WhiteCard means to them.
“Behind each WhiteCard, there is a story. A story where sport fosters reconciliation and coexistence within and between communities. A story where sport contributes to building more inclusive societies and combats all forms of discrimination. A story where sport contributes to fighting against gender stereotypes and gender-based violence. A story where sport breaks traditional barriers and encourages intercultural and interreligious understanding. A story where sport connects, inspires and empowers girls and boys. A story where sport, as a universal language, prevents interpersonal violence and achieves peace goals. As Champions for Peace, we believe that sport has the power to change lives and to shape peaceful societies.”
April 6: International Day of Sport for Development and Peace
Every year for International Day of Sport for Development and Peace, the platform www.april6.org is ready to be used as a resource to identify and promote initiatives and associations that help promote peace through sport. The site is full of inspiring stories about the victories of peace through sport. Through the platform, everyone is invited to download all the elements necessary to mobilize and share their stories.
