Israeli Soccer Team and Fans set Example of Acceptance

Recently, soccer players 19-year-old Gabriel Kadiev and 23-year-old Zaur Sadayev were signed to Israeli soccer team Beitar Jerusalem. Because the players are from the Muslim region of Chechnya of Russia, there has been much hate and controversy surrounding this signing. Many police officers were stationed in and around the stadium as the two players made their debut with the team in a game in February 2013, due to fear of hate violence similar to the burning of a team office that occurred a few days prior following the announcement of the players' signing. Though there was some booing and jeering as the team walked onto the field, the majority of the stadium gave them a standing ovation. In addition, bright banners reading "Violence and racism? Not on our field" were strung around the everywhere.
This, to me, is a major step forward in the fight against Muslim and Middle Eastern discrimination. Despite the fact that there were still people present at the even who were jeering at the players, the majority of the people there were supportive not only of the players, but of tolerance and acceptance for people of all backgrounds and religions. Additionally, this is monumental because there has long been conflict and disagreement between the Israeli people and people from other Middle Eastern countries. Though it didn't occur in America, hopefully this event will help to send a message and set an example of acceptance for people around the world.

Source: USA Today. (See Article Here)