New storm coming for ‘institutionally racist’ cricket: ‘Inspired by Azeem Rafiq’s bravery’, over 1,000 people step forward with stories of race, gender and disability discrimination in just ONE WEEK
- Azeem Rafiq gave evidence in parliament this week over his experiences of racism in cricket
- Last week, The Independent Commission for Equity in Cricket began an open call for others to come forward with their experiences of discrimination
- Rafiq’s bravery has been credited with helping others to speak up
Azeem Rafiq’s bravery in speaking out against racism has been credited for encouraging more than 1,000 people coming forward with their own experiences of discrimination.
The Independent Commission for Equity in Cricket began an open call for evidence last week and has been inundated with online survey submissions since from individuals who have been subjected to prejudice on grounds of race, gender or disability.
Chaired by Cindy Butts, a member of the Kick It Out board and a former deputy chair of the Metropolitan Police Authority, ICEC is exploring the lack of progression of black and Asian players across talent pathways and the professional game as well as scrutinising the leadership of the England and Wales Cricket Board when it comes to matters of equity.
Azeem Rafiq gave evidence about his experiences of racism in cricket during a parliamentary hearing in London on Tuesday
‘Since launching part one of our call for evidence last week, over one thousand people have already come forward to share their experiences with us,’ Butts said.
‘It is crucial people across the game, many likely inspired by Azeem’s bravery, have the chance to be heard.
‘As an independent body established to examine the state of equity in cricket we will go where the evidence takes us. We continue to urge anyone who has experienced discrimination to respond to our call.’
Allegations of overt discrimination will be escalated by ICEC to the governing body and to individual clubs where appropriate.