Nottingham Forest has warned supporters after a chant was labelled misogynistic, prompting debate among fans on social media. The anti-discrimination charity Kick It Out said reports of misogynistic chanting "rose sharply" last season, and that more than 50% of female fans had experienced sexism or misogyny at matches.
Paul Obayo, from Kick It Out, told the BBC that chants like these "create a sense of othering and unease for a number of different fans". He said there had been a "record number of reports" for sexism and misogyny in the game, including for sexist mass chanting. He welcomed Nottingham Forest's proactive approach, particularly its consultation with fan groups, and said it was an example he would like to see all clubs follow.
Obayo said he wanted to see wider acknowledgement of the hurt such chants cause, along with more education and action on the issues involved. He added that clubs could not "ban [their] way out of abuse", but praised Forest for working with its fan advisory board to "shift the culture".
Not all supporters agreed with the decision. Forest fan Lisa Fox said she was "not overly offended" by the chant but found it "a bit archaic", suggesting other songs could bring back much-needed atmosphere. She also acknowledged that chants express local identity and humour, but said that does not make them harmless. Nottinghamshire Police has been approached for comment.
Source: BBC Sport · Summarized by HeadlinesBriefing