College condemns racism in cricket

The College has condemned the impact of institutional racism both at Yorkshire County Cricket Club and across cricket in general. We have also highlighted the impact of workplace racism on mental health.

Cricketer Azeem Rafiq has courageously exposed the racism he was subjected to at Yorkshire County Cricket Club and has spoken of being suicidal because of his experience, which has impacted on all aspects of his life.

Azeem has also revealed that the issue was widespread. Although their own investigations have revealed evidence of racist behaviour, the club has sadly decided not to take any disciplinary action.

Several other Black, Asian and minority ethnic cricketers have also come forward and spoken about the racism they have endured and the toll this has taken on their mental health.

Dr Adrian James, President of the Royal College of Psychiatrists, commented:

“Institutional racism – both conscious and unconscious – results in people going along with unacceptable behaviours that cause serious harm to others, and many may not be in a position to challenge it. Racial discrimination can have a significant, negative impact on a person’s life chances and mental health.

We are particularly concerned that racism is not taken seriously enough by many organisations. Efforts to tackle this should be urgently prioritised by Government, non-governmental organisations and professional bodies.”

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