NIFL launch campaign against violence towards women
Teams are being encouraged to post photos on their social media and use the hashtag #NotInOurGame
- Published
The Northern Ireland Football League (NIFL) has launched an awareness campaign against violence towards women called #NotInOurGame.
Since 2020, 30 women have been violently killed in Northern Ireland.
In all but one case the perpetrator or suspected perpetrator has been a man and in most cases the man was well known to the woman.
The campaign aims to use the platform of football to raise awareness, start conversation and promote responsibility across society.
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Fans at grounds across Tuesday's round of Irish Premiership matches were encouraged to clap on the 30th minute for 30 seconds, with supporters also partaking during Saturday's Irish Cup and Premiership games.
Applause rang out on the 30th minute at Solitude during Tuesday's fixture between Cliftonville and Glentoran
Clubs across the leagues have also used social media to post squad photos and player-led content to further address the issue that impacts communities across Northern Ireland.
"The Northern Ireland Football League is encouraging all supporters to play their part by joining the applause and continuing to share the campaign message across social media using #NotInOurGame," a NIFL statement read.
"Together, the football community can help drive awareness, challenge behaviour and play a role in ending violence against women."
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The father of Natalie McNally, who was murdered in her Lurgan home in December 2022, said: "The more this can be put out into the open about violence against women and girls, the better."
Noel McNally took part in a NIFL campaign appearing on a video posted on social media.
"You have to treat women with the greatest respect. Women are equal to everyone," he added.
"This misogynistic behaviour, even at football matches, it has to stop."
'The response has been incredibly powerful' - Lawlor
Teams in all leagues in Northern Ireland have been taking part
NIFL chief executive Gerard Lawlor praised the response to the campaign and also encouraged people to continue to take part.
"The response to #NotInOurGame has been incredibly powerful. Across our clubs, players and supporters, we are seeing the football community come together to send a clear message that violence against women has no place in our game or in society," Lawlor said.
"Football has a unique ability to bring people together, and we are proud to use our platform to raise awareness and drive meaningful change.
"The support we have received so far shows just how important this issue is, and we encourage everyone attending matches this week to take part in the 30th minute applause and stand with us."
