The Leitrim senior hurlers will play all of their matches this year in new jerseys that display the message, "No To Racism".
The new jersey is Leitrim GAA initiative in partnership with the Migrant Rights Centre Ireland (MRCI) and is supported by the Gaelic Players Association.
Iranian-born Leitrim hurler Zak Moradi was at Croke Park to launch the shirt today and he outlined what he hopes this new initiative can help achieve.
"Racism is one of the worst things you can encounter," said Moradi, who was part of the Leitrim team that won the 2019 Lory Meagher Cup.
"It creates a high divide amongst people and without its existence we would have a more peaceful, welcoming and inclusive society.
10 June 2017; Zak Moradi of Leitrim scores a point despite the efforts of Thomas Kelly, left, and Kieran Boxwell of Warwickshire during the Lory Meagher Cup Final match between Leitrim and Warwickshire at Croke Park in Dublin. Photo by Piaras Ó Mídheach/Sportsfile"We want to raise awareness & create a community that sticks together as a whole with no divides.
"We're all human & we all deserve a sense of belonging regardless of race. We want the same team spirit of sports: all for one & one for all."
The MRCI stated in their tweet launching the new jersey on Monday, "Racism has no place in our society, communities, workplaces, schools or in sport. MRCI is delighted to join forces with Leitrim Hurling and Zak Moradi.
"This jersey sends a clear message, raises awareness, and shows solidarity with everyone impacted by racism."
Racism has no place in our society, communities, workplaces, schools or in sport. MRCI is delighted to join forces with @LeitrimHurling + @ZakmoradiGAA. This jersey sends a clear message, raises awareness and shows solidarity with everyone impacted by racism. #NoToRacism #GAA pic.twitter.com/3QIdtAGGJ1
— Migrant Rights Centre Ireland (@MigrantRightsIr) May 10, 2021
The jersey will get its first outing when the Ridge County hurlers take on Louth in round one of Division 3B in the Allianz Hurling League.
The match takes place this Sunday at Avant Money Páirc Seán Mac Diarmada and throws in at 2 o'clock.
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