More Love, Less Hate. Don't Use Flags To Intimidate

This summer, a campaign from the far-right, 'Operation Raise the Colours', has resulted in flags erected across the country. Organised by members and founders of far right and neo Nazi groups, convicted of racially aggravated murder, it intentionally attempts to promote their 'white's only' political ideology and intimidate migrants, asylum seekers and black and Asian people.  Hate crimes are on the rise in society.

Used in this way, the Union Jack and St George's flags, rather than being a symbol of all British and English people, is being utilised as a tool for racial harassment and intimidation.

‘MB Roofing', a local Brighton roofing company, has actively participated in this movement, illegally putting up Union Jacks and St George's flags in the name of hate, and tearing down flags that say 'Everyone is Welcome' in and around Brighton. People who have objected or have tried to take down the Union Jack or St George's flags have been intimidated by MB Roofing workers, in MB Roofing branded vehicles and work gear.  Others taking down flags in Brighton have been followed, threatened and attacked (including council workers).

These flags are not harmless, they are part of a national far right campaign to spread fear, intimidate minorities and claim our public space.

'MB Roofing' are also one of Brighton and Hove Albion's main sponsors.

Brighton & Hove Albion has long supported diversity. They are a longstanding headline sponsor of the Brighton Pride Festival, actively participating in the annual summer Pride procession and demonstrating visible support for the LGBTQ+ community. Its community outreach projects support, amongst many organisations, a 'Global Social Club for Refugees'.

With a record number of international players in the squad, does The Albion really want to be associated with a campaign of intimidating nationalism, organised by individuals convicted of a racially aggravated murder and a openly recognised far-right activist, via the actions of one of their major sponsors?

These ideas are not what we understand to be 'British' and are not what we believe Brighton & Hove Albion, as a football club, Brighton as a City or Great Britain as a country, wishes to stand for. 

Football is an international sport that demonstrates unity and cross-border connection of people everywhere.
We believe to be 'British' means diversity, inclusivity and welcome. 

We demand 'MB Roofing' is removed from sponsoring Brighton and Hove Albion and request that Brighton & Hove Albion use its influence to create a statement of positive support for local communities.