Today sees the launch of the film the ‘Y-Word’, written and produced by David and Ivor Baddiel. We have worked with the creators of the film as we believe it has merit as a starting point for a debate on what is a complex issue in respect of the use of the 'Y word', but more importantly for raising greater awareness throughout the footballing community of the wider issue of anti-Semitic abuse and chanting in football.
Historically the 'Y word' chant has been adopted by Spurs fans as a ‘call to arms’ in order to own the term and thereby deflect anti-Semitic abuse. A small number of both Jewish and non-Jewish Spurs fans use the Y word in what they consider to be an inoffensive manner. The defining principle has always been whether or not the term is being used in a manner and in a tone which is deliberately intended to cause offence. In incidences which have resulted in prosecution of opposition fans, this has been the differentiating factor.
Whilst we recognize the sensitivities around the use of the Y word, this is only one aspect of the debate when tackling anti-Semitism.
It is unthinkable and wholly unacceptable that, in this day and age, supporters are subjected to anti-Semitic abuse such as hissing to imitate the gas chambers used during the Holocaust in the Second World War.
We look forward to an informed and proper debate with Kick it Out, stakeholders and the key authorities to raise greater awareness and put in place the stringent measures needed to stop anti-Semitic abuse in football.
We are committed to eliminating all forms of racism and we shall support efforts to kick anti-Semitism out of the game.