So it seems to me that we can do one of two things. We can turn on each other destructively, as we have done today; or we can do something constructive. It really is sad that we turn on each other because it seems to me that both sides of the argument agree; there should be spaces at grounds where those who want to stand, can. The FSF's campaign is the only game in town. It takes you less than 30 seconds to sign, and furthermore if you sign, you are automatically enrolled in the FSF. I've got the vague feeling that the FSF isn't as effective as it could be - maybe that's unfair. But only 13,000 signatures for such an issue seems to me a bit underwhelming. If a significant number of us become FSF members (just by signing the petition) then maybe the next step is to get one of our "active' fans into one of their key positions. After all, we're good at this kind of activism.
After Carl and I, 9 more Charlton fans have now signed the petition, which is great.
But really, surely, its an issue we agree on isn't it. So let's all sign, and get a big Charlton element into the FSF
Once again,
here is the link to the petition (seem to have some problem with the link function here...)
Comments
I think Lancs made the point that when you stand in smaller stadiums there are crash barriers which you can rest on. The problem with yesterday is that you cannot do that in an all seater stadium . It was the worst of all worlds .
It was all that ''pushing'' that led to Thatcher banning standing in the first place!
Yes you should get an email after signing
'Don't just leave it there! You must know dozens of people who feel the same way about this as you do. Spread the word, use our sharing options below* and tell them about the campaign. Fans are the most important people in football. We have to make sure our voice is heard'.
* You can add to it to your facebook and other profiles. Why not do this too?
N.B: Politicians have already taken notice of fans' views. It was in the Liberal Democrats manifesto to install safe standing. Seeing as we have a coalition it might not take much more for them to persuade Cameron & co.
The FSF and its predecessor the FSA, are a campaigning organisation that came to prominence in the 1980s when Thatcher, Moynihan and Luton Chairman Evans thought it would be a good idea to ban all away supporters. (Many of us still got into Kenilworth Road though). It is a democratic organisation structured on a regional basis. I think many people would have come across FSF if travelling to support England, as they set up a fans embassy wherever England play away.
I still get regular newsletters e-mailed to me. I expect anybody signing the petition can expect the same.