Sheffield Hallam Men’s Football Society is running 300 miles in support of the #BlackLivesMatter movement

“If what’s happening in the world right now doesn’t infuriate you, you’re not human”


Sheffield Hallam Men’s Football Society is collectively running, walking and cycling 300 miles over the course of a week to raise money for the Black Lives Matter movement.

The charity which the money is being raised for, Hope not Hate, is an anti-racism and anti-discrimination charity which campaigns against racism and fascism in politics. It is now one of the largest and most successful political action groups in the UK.

The fundraiser started on Friday 5 June and will run until Friday 12 June. At the end of the first day of fundraising, the society had already raised half of their proposed target – and they are now pushing to exceed their goal of £500.

Jack Lowers, Chairman of the Society, told The Sheffield Tab: “This isn’t about looking good or putting Hallam in a good light – it’s about doing as much as we can to finally put an end to racism and discrimination.”

Freddie Maddocks, a Social Secretary for Hallam Men’s Football, added: “At Hallam Football, there is no place for racism, discrimination and injustice. But, with racism being a recurring issue within football, setting an example and doing stuff like this is the least we can do.”

After George Floyd, a 46-year-old black man, was killed on the 25 May by a white police officer in Minneapolis, there have been worldwide protests and universal support has been shown for the #BlackLivesMatter movement.

Sam Ions, the society’s Events Officer, told The Sheffield Tab: “Myself and Hallam Men’s Football feel raising awareness and contributing our part is the very least we could do in the fight to end racism and discrimination.

“The Black Lives Matter Movement has shown incredible solidarity against institutional racism and discrimination, which for too long has been accepted on a global scale. This movement has given the platform for people to be heard and ultimately demand change.”

Miles Evans, a society member, added: “It’s just so sad that it took the killing of George Floyd for this matter to make global news and make people think.”

This year, Hallam Men’s Football want to increase their charitable work and hold more fundraising events.

Connor Eyes, the Social Secretary of the society, said: “If what’s happening in the world right now doesn’t infuriate you, you’re not human. Stand together – black lives matter.”

You can follow the fundraiser event over on The Sheffield Hallam Men’s Football Instagram.

To donate and support the boys further, click here to visit the Hope not Hate website and here to donate to their fundraiser.

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