‘In Islington we’re so proud of Bukayo Saka’

• BUKAYO Saka has been a true star of Euro 2020, bringing spark, drive, and energy to England, always positive, always looking to make something creative happen on the pitch.

Off the pitch Bukayo’s happy, optimistic, nature has made him an extremely popular member of the squad.

In Islington we’re so proud of Bukayo. He’s been at Arsenal since he was a boy and his explosive talent made him last season’s player of the year, at only 19 years of age.

During the Euro 2020 final, Bukayo showed the character, leadership, and determination we love and respect so much. Standing up for the decisive penalty in the penalty shoot-out showed maturity and courage beyond his years.

In stark contrast, the racist abuse that a number of England’s black players faced on social media after the final was cowardly, vicious, and hateful.

It is unacceptable that social media platforms allow racist abuse against black people to continue, day after day, even when it is happening in plain sight and is called out again and again.

It is unacceptable that senior members of the government say they are “disgusted” by the racist abuse players face and yet publicly oppose players taking the knee to highlight racial inequality and discrimination.

We stand resolute as an anti-racist organisation. Challenging racism, inequality, and injustice is a huge priority for us and we will keep striving to tackle the inequality that continues to blight lives across our community.

Bukayo, we are so proud of you. You are a force on the pitch and an inspiration to us all. England and Arsenal are lucky to have you.
We stand with you.

CLLR KAYA COMER-SCHWARTZ
Leader of Islington Council