"The idea is that there is a time for everything. A time to do sport, a time to practice one's religion," Eric Borghini, head of the federal referee commission at the federation, told Agence France-Presse (AFP)." (From The Daily Sabah)

As French referees have been advised not to stop football match by the country's football federation, stating the practice "does not comply with the French Football Federation's statutes", Muslim football players are forced to decide between LIVING THEIR TRUTH and following this discriminatory ruling in order to be able to play the game. 

Article 9 (freedom of thought, conscience and religion) of the European Convention on Human Rights:

“1. Everyone has the right to freedom of thought, conscience and religion; this right includes freedom to change his religion or belief and freedom, either alone or in community with others and in public or private, to manifest his religion or belief, in worship, teaching, practice and observance.

2. Freedom to manifest one’s religion or beliefs shall be subject only to such limitations as are prescribed by law and are necessary in a democratic society in the interests of public safety, for the protection of public order, health or morals, or for the protection of the rights and freedoms of others.” 

This decision was NOT democratic, when there was NO threat to public safety nor to public order, health, or morals; in order to protect the RIGHTS and FREEDOMS of others, this decision MUST be revoked IN FULL.

Sign this petition to help us DEMAND the prioritization of equality and freedom of religion, and to fight AGAINST discrimination.