RPA Statement on Rugby on Racism

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The Rugby Players Association (RPA) has been liaising with a working group comprising of black players from across the PRL Clubs as well as former players including James Bailey, Ugo Monye and Paul Hull.

This group has issued the following statement which is fully supported by the RPA and its members:

“As players, we stand together, united in the fight against racism and we are proud to support the positive message that Black Lives Matter. We are not endorsing a political ideology. We are uniting as players to combat racial discrimination in our sport and in society.” #BlackLivesMatter

How each of our members choose to act in relation to this moment is a matter of their personal choice. We respect and defend their individual right to make that decision.

Damian Hopley, Group CEO said: “Positive dialogue is continuing with the aforementioned player group and we look forward to working closely with PRL, the Clubs, RFU and other stakeholders to deliver tangible progress around opportunity, leadership and education.”

ENDS