Lachante Paul: 'I Embrace Everything It Means To Be Black'
- Lachante Paul and Paige Bailey-Gayle discuss Black History Month
- The LCFC Women duo believe education at an early age is key to tackling racism
- Black History Month is a commemoration of the history, achievements and contributions of black people in the UK
Held in October each year, Black History Month brings an opportunity to celebrate the contributions, achievements and impact of black people and those from historically underrepresented ethnic communities across the UK.
For Paul and Bailey-Gayle, they believe the celebration is important to help better people’s understanding of black culture, and that education around the subject is vital.
Paige said: “Black History Month is a time to celebrate black excellence and to show our gratitude to those who have paved the way for the likes of myself and Lachante to be where we are now.
“It’s up to us now as two black women to continue that and I’m proud to be a role model for black children who want to play football.
“It’s important to break stigma and to show others that you can achieve anything and that you can be excellent.”
The pair say they have never experienced racism on a football pitch, but have experienced online abuse, something they feel needs addressing quickly.
“I’ve been misjudged because of the colour of my skin,” Lachante said. “It’s a real issue because instead of getting to know me as a person, some people can’t see past the fact I’m black and make nasty comments.
“It makes me feel angry, but then on the other hand I guess some people just aren’t educated enough, and that’s what needs to happen. Education is so important.
“I try not to let comments get to me too much because I’m so proud to be black. I love my culture and would never want to change. I embrace everything it means to be black.”
Paige added: “Receiving abuse on social media made me feel really sad. It’s a big problem in today’s society and is definitely something that needs to be cut out.
“At the end of the day, nobody is born racist and put on this earth to racially abuse people, so it’s 100 per cent about education. People need to be taught how it makes others feel and the impact it has on their lives.
“Education needs to get better across the board though, not just in football. Children need to be taught about different cultures from an early age and to understand that people are different.”
Throughout October, coaches from Leicester City in the Community – the Football Club’s charitable arm – will be delivering lessons on Black History Month to hundreds of local school children as part of the Premier League Primary Stars programme.
Leicester City is committed to creating a passionate, inclusive and welcoming environment. Should anyone experience any form of harassment, discrimination or bullying in a Leicester City setting, please contact help@lcfc.co.uk or call 0344 815 5000 (option four).
On a matchday at King Power Stadium, you can speak to your nearest steward, or report any form of discrimination or hate crime by texting FOXES followed by your message and seat details to 60066.
Please click HERE for more information about Black History Month.