Celtic this evening issued a statement concerning the Green Brigade’s banners at the game against Kilmarnock on Saturday which showed their support for the Palestinian struggle. The banners read “Free Palestine” and “Victory to the Resistance” with numerous Palestine flags on show.
It’s fair to say that these banners have received a mixed reception from Celtic supporters with many supporting the Green Brigade message and others stating that it has no place at a football match.
That was the Green Brigade’s stance and not for the first time it is not supported by Celtic who made that clear in today’s statement in response to the banners. Celtic statement, as posted on the official Celtic FC website reads as follows:
“Banners displayed in a section of Celtic Park prior to Saturday’s game do not represent the views of Celtic Football Club and we disassociate ourselves from them. We condemn the display of such messages at Celtic Park.
“Celtic is a football club and not a political organisation. One of our core values from inception is to be open to all regardless of race, colour, politics or creed. That is why the Club has always made clear that political messages and banners are not welcome at Celtic Park, or any match involving Celtic. At a time of loss and suffering for many, it is entirely inappropriate for any group of individuals to use Celtic Park as a vehicle for such messages.
“We call on all supporters, regardless of their personal views, to unite in backing our players and the Club while respecting the rights and beliefs of others; particularly those whose lives are affected by violence and hatred.”