The club has issued a strong statement regarding abuse and discriminatory behaviour at matches and online.
It comes after thirty-one members and season ticket holders have been banned for abusive and discriminatory behaviour since the start of the 2021/22 season.
The supporters have each been handed three-year bans, meaning they cannot attend any Arsenal match home or away during that period.
The club is monitoring social media channels to identify and unmask abusive accounts. So far, the club says, 11.3 million posts have been examined, with verified abusers blocked and reported to platforms and authorities.
It is only a tiny minority of supporters, but the club will continue to take strong action against abusers who are identified as Arsenal season ticket holders or members. Where necessary, the police will also be involved.
Arsenal CEO, Vinai Venkatesham, said: “We take all forms of abuse and discrimination extremely seriously – whether online or in and around the stadium.
‘Our aim is to create an environment at Arsenal where everybody feels welcome’
Arsenal CEO, Vinai Venkatesham
“New technology is changing the way we’re able to support our communities and create a safer space for the entire Arsenal family.
“Our aim is to create an environment at Arsenal where everybody feels welcome, and we hope this action serves as a deterrent for those using abusive, threatening, and discriminatory language.”
Education is another important part of the club’s strategy for tackling abuse and discrimination. Individuals who have been banned are now offered the chance to reduce the length of their punishment if they attend a one-to-one education programme run by Kick It Out.
The club is asking supporters’ groups like AISA to join the campaign, and to celebrate and champion our diverse communities, and we are very pleased to be involved
The club is asking groups like AISA to join the campaign, to celebrate and champion our diverse communities.
It also reminds supporters that if they witness any form of abusive or discriminatory behaviour inside the stadium, they are encouraged to report it to a matchday steward or by texting ‘FOUL’ to 67777 with a description of what happened and the block, row and seat number. Abuse in the stadium or online can also be reported via the club website.
For the full club statement, go to https://www.arsenal.com/news/our-ongoing-drive-against-abuse-and-discrimination