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The FA will not take any disciplinary action for the crowd-related incidents in Millwall and Colchester on December 5.
The governing body launched an investigation after some supporters booed the kneeling players.
While no further action will be taken, the FA says it will continue to support anyone who chooses to kneel, adding that it does not view the anti-racism gesture as a political symbol.
A statement from the FA read: “The FA has conducted full and thorough investigations into the crowd-related incidents that took place both in The Den and at JobServe Community Stadium on Saturday, December 5, 2020.
“Having carefully considered these matters, including comments from all relevant parties, we can confirm that no formal disciplinary action will be taken against the clubs on this occasion.
“However, the FA would like to further clarify that anyone who chooses to kneel will continue to receive our support, as they highlight the inequality and injustice experienced by the black community.
“To be clear, we do not see the knee as a political symbol, and we would argue that now there can be no doubt about what the gesture means in a football context.
“Therefore, going forward, the FA will continue to monitor and investigate if similar crowd-related incidents occur.
“The FA continues to support all players and clubs who wish to take a position against any form of discrimination and will always condemn the behavior of anyone who chooses to actively oppose these values.”
Millwall said they were “dismayed and saddened by the events that marred their game against Derby County,” while Colchester owner Robbie Cowling says fans who want to boo players who kneel are not welcome at the club. .
PFA survey shows players want to keep kneeling
A poll from the Professional Soccer Players Association has shown that players overwhelmingly support continuing to kneel.
The PFA sent a questionnaire to all of its members asking if it should continue after a series of incidents in which fans booed the anti-racism gesture, and what is the best way to convey the anti-discrimination message to leagues, clubs and players.
The results showed that 80 percent of the players support continuing with this act of solidarity despite the adverse responses that may be received, with more than 400 responses to the survey.
A statement from the PFA read: “Throughout 2020, PFA members have demonstrated a strong understanding of the societal issues raised around the world and have used their platform to highlight the impact racism has on both people as in communities in general.
“The decision to kneel before matches was initially made by Premier League captains during Project Restart, to show solidarity with blacks facing discrimination around the world.
“This powerful symbol of solidarity represents the players’ commitment to anti-racism and is not an endorsement of any political position. It is a peaceful act of unity that highlights a persistent and systemic problem.”
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