Rio de Janeiro Honors Vinicius Jr. with Anti-Racism Law
In June, the Rio de Janeiro government unanimously approved the ‘Vini Jr Law’, an anti-racism law in honor of Real Madrid forward Vinicius Jr. The law will see sporting events stopped or suspended in the event of racist conduct. Vinicius, 22, was racially abused several times last season and was inspired to take a stand against racism.
Today, Vinicius was honored at a ceremony at the Maracana Stadium, where he made his senior debut for Flamengo. He said, “Today is a very special day and I hope my family is very proud. I am very young and I didn’t expect that I would be receiving this tribute.”
The ‘Vini Jr Law’
The ‘Vini Jr Law’ includes protocol on how to process complaints of racism and mandatory educational campaigns. It was inspired by Vinicius’ response to being racially abused during a game at Valencia in May, which was stopped as the player pointed out those responsible.
Vinicius also received awards from Rio’s legislative assembly and city council and his footprints were added to the stadium’s walk of fame, beside those of Brazilian greats such as Pele, Garrincha and Ronaldo. Rio’s secretary for sports, Rafael Picciani, said it was an honor to pay tribute to “an idol of Brazilian football, born and raised in Rio de Janeiro”.
Vinicius Leading FIFA Anti-Racism Committee
Vinicius has been asked to lead a special FIFA anti-racism committee made up of players. His most recent games were in post-season friendlies for Brazil against Guinea and Senegal, which were organized as part of an anti-racism campaign, which will continue with a friendly against Spain at Real’s Bernabeu stadium next March.
Vinicius said, “Sometimes I wonder if I deserve so much. I didn’t expect so many awards and to receive all this affection at the Maracana, where I attended and played so many Flamengo matches.”
Conclusion
The Rio de Janeiro government has honored Real Madrid forward Vinicius Jr. with the ‘Vini Jr Law’, an anti-racism law that will see sporting events stopped or suspended in the event of racist conduct. Vinicius has also been asked to lead a special FIFA anti-racism committee made up of players. This is a great step forward in the fight against racism in sports and a fitting tribute to Vinicius Jr., who has been an inspiration to many.