Active Cumbria Supports Unify Cumbria Campaign to Tackle Racism in Sport
September 23, 2026
Active Cumbria is proud to support Unify Cumbria, a county-wide campaign led by Anti Racist Cumbria that is encouraging sports clubs to take a stand against racism and create welcoming environments where everyone can belong.
Sport has a unique ability to bring people together. It connects people of different backgrounds, builds friendships, strengthens communities and creates opportunities for everyone to be active. However, racism, discrimination and hate continue to affect people involved in sport, whether on the pitch, from the sidelines, in changing rooms or online.
The Unify Cumbria campaign is calling on clubs across the county to make a clear and public commitment to inclusion by signing the Unify Cumbria Statement and demonstrating that racism has no place in sport.
A Local Response to a Local Challenge
While there are many excellent national initiatives addressing racism in sport, Unify Cumbria recognises the importance of local action.
The campaign's message, "If You Hate the Player, You Can't Love the Game," highlights the need for everyone involved in sport to work together to create environments where people feel safe, respected and valued.
Sports clubs play a vital role in communities across Cumbria. They are places where people come together, build confidence, develop skills and create lasting friendships. By supporting Unify Cumbria, clubs can help foster cultures built on respect, inclusion and belonging.
How Clubs Can Get Involved
Active Cumbria is encouraging clubs and organisations across the county to support the campaign by:
- Signing the Unify Cumbria Statement and making a public commitment to challenging racism and discrimination. Support Our Cumbrian Sports Campaign - Anti Racist Cumbria
- Attending a free workshop delivered by Anti Racist Cumbria in October 2026, designed to help clubs build confidence in recognising and responding to racism in sport. Free Training with ARC: Local Sports Clubs
- Sharing campaign messages and graphics through their own communication channels to raise awareness and show support.
Taking part does not require specialist knowledge. The campaign is about starting conversations, learning together and creating positive environments where everyone feels welcome.
Oliver Carswell, Active Cumbria ED&I Senior Reporting Officer said: "We are proud to support Unify Cumbria and the important work being led by Anti Racist Cumbria.
“Sport should be a place where people come together, celebrate diversity and feel a sense of belonging.
“Through this local campaign, clubs have an opportunity to demonstrate their commitment to creating welcoming and inclusive environments for all. We’d really encourage local clubs to sign up, get involved, and be part of it."
Additional Support for Clubs
Clubs looking to strengthen their approach to inclusion can also access a range of free resources through Buddle, including practical guidance on creating welcoming and inclusive environments. Being inclusive | Buddle
There is also a free UK Coaching workshop, Developing an Inclusive Environment, taking place on 13 October 2026, offering further support for coaches, volunteers and club leaders. Cornerstone Saba: Course and Class Details
Join the Movement
By supporting Unify Cumbria, clubs are sending a simple but powerful message: racism, hate and discrimination have no place in sport.
Together, we can ensure that sport in Cumbria remains a force for good, bringing people together, celebrating diversity and creating opportunities for everyone to participate and thrive.