MLS, in collaboration with the MLS Players Association (MLSPA) and Black Players For Change (BPC), has recently announced the launch of its anti-discrimination policy. This policy has been developed in response to a series of on-field incidents involving racial abuse among players over the past 20 months. With the primary objective of eradicating such incidents, the league aims to deter misconduct, ensure accountability, and promote honesty, growth, and education within the sport.
Crafting a policy of this nature is a considerable undertaking, requiring not only intelligent minds but also compassionate hearts to create a culture grounded in dignity and respect. Sola Winley, MLS Chief Engagement and Inclusion Officer, emphasized the importance of developing such a culture not only within the soccer and football landscape but also in the broader sports arena.
The formulation of this new policy spanned nine months of careful planning, coming to light last year. Its implementation involves thorough investigations whenever an incident occurs, including an assessment of video and audio footage, a review of the official match report, and interviews with relevant witnesses.
Beyond the investigative measures, the policy also incorporates a pathway for restorative justice that includes both the accuser and the accused. In the wake of a discriminatory incident, players involved will have the opportunity to engage in confidential discussions with a trained facilitator. These facilitators will play a crucial role in evaluating the situation and suggesting a restorative plan, should it be deemed appropriate.
Restorative plans may involve multiple sessions between the alleged offender and the facilitator, allowing the offender to understand the harm caused and potentially make amends with those affected by their conduct. Education and personalized counseling will also be provided as part of the restorative process.
Although the MLS commissioner retains the authority to issue discipline when violations occur, players who accept responsibility for their actions and agree to engage in a restorative plan will face less severe punishment. On the other hand, those who deny committing the act and are found, based on the evidence, to have been untruthful or misleading will face more severe consequences.
Alan Hopkins, the BPC Executive Director, applauded the efforts made by the league, MLSPA, and BPC in developing this policy. He emphasized the significance of being a first mover in addressing the issue of discrimination, stating that while many clubs focus on innovation in gameplay and operations, few have taken the lead in tackling discrimination.
In addition to the measures taken to address incidents, the league has implemented a cultural awareness training program called 'Playing As One.' This program requires all players, coaches, and staff to participate and aims to educate participants about cultural differences, harmful stereotypes, and offensive language relating to gender identity or sexual orientation.
Earl Edwards, Jr., goalkeeper for the New England Revolution and a board member of both MLSPA and BPC, shared his positive experience with the cultural awareness training. He noted that while most preseason meetings may not be eagerly anticipated by players due to the demands of training camp, the response to this particular training was different. Participants left the meeting feeling that they had gained valuable insights and expressed enthusiasm for the camaraderie fostered throughout the league as a result of the training.
The cultural awareness program is facilitated by former MLS players who also contributed to its curriculum design. Spanish and French speakers are included among the facilitators to ensure effective communication with as many players as possible. The feedback from participants in these sessions has been encouraging, with the discussion and materials being commended as essential components in addressing the issue.
As of now, twenty out of twenty-nine teams have completed the workshop, with club visits commencing on January 16 and concluding on February 21. Sola Winley emphasized that the ultimate goal of the policy and cultural awareness training is not just to address the behavior but to understand and educate individuals about different cultures and help foster a cohesive and inclusive environment.
With the implementation of this robust anti-discrimination policy and the cultural awareness training program, the MLS, MLSPA, and BPC are taking significant steps towards tackling discrimination in soccer. By addressing incidents through thorough investigations, restorative justice, and disciplinary measures, and by promoting education and understanding through cultural awareness training, they are setting a precedent for other sports organizations to follow. This concerted effort aims to create an environment rooted in dignity, respect, and equality within the MLS and beyond.
