After some England supporters booed the anti-racism action, this is an important moment for white people
It was at the League One play-off final on Sunday when I experienced it for myself. Before kick-off, observing the now familiar pre-match ritual of players taking the knee, there was a roar across Wembley. A section of the crowd, not nearly half but much more than an isolated pocket, were booing as hard as they could. After seconds of shock I started to clap, as did a number of other people. It was the only thing I could think to do to drown out the noise, but it was too late.
The booing had happened before, at the FA Cup final and at the final matches of the Premier League season. It happened again on Wednesday night, when England played Austria at the Riverside. The expectation must now be that it will continue. The booing is not shy and not half-hearted. It is a clear and vocal protest, and it signifies an important moment.
Related: Gareth Southgate: England fans’ boos ‘feel like criticism’ of black players
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