EXCLUSIVE: HENRY LEADS THE BOYCOTT
HENRY OUT TO MAKE WAVES
HE IS the man who started a movement.
Five weeks ago today, without any fanfare, Thierry Henry posted on social media that he would be leaving Twitter and Instagram until both address the widespread bullying and racism on their platforms. Support for the France and Arsenal legend from other players and sporting bodies was conspicuous by its absence. Some players, asked directly by fans whether they would join him, blustered about being able to stay connected to their followers.
Others voiced support but remained on their platforms. Today, however, the entire sporting structure in this country – with many sponsors added – has united in an unprecedented show of solidarity. “Sometimes when you’re alone screaming something, you feel lonely,” said Henry, 43.
“But I’m not talking for me. I’m talking for the people that don’t have a voice.
“I’m talking about the people who have been abused, harassed for the way they look, for what they believe in, the colour of their skin.
“So, at the time I felt, ‘Maybe if I come off social media, taking a stand for the people that don’t maybe have a voice, maybe you can create a wave.’
“I’m going to give the example of the Super League. Everyone came together, it lasted two days.
“Everybody showed those clubs they don’t want it. You have to listen to the masses.”
A collective blow is being landed now by broadcasters, sponsors and sports bodies including British racing, the Lawn Tennis Association and British rugby.
Legislation in the form of the Online Harms Bill, to be unveiled in the Queen’s Speech on May 11, will define racism as a statutory online harm alongside anti-Semitism and the promotion of suicide or self-harm.
The tech companies have been scrambling to launch a PR counteroffensive, insisting they are powerless to do more.
Instagram tried to PR their way out of a tricky situation, contacting Henry’s camp for a meeting with the Premier League Hall of Fame inductee. “I didn’t want to be reached or not reached,” he said. “We have so many discussions – I just want action. I say again, it’s the strength of the pack.
“I do believe if the community comes together and wants a change, it might not happen overnight, but it will eventually happen.”