Earthquakes defender has joined the grassroots Say No To Racism movement popularized by FC Barcelona defender Dani Alves’ banana-eating incident on April 27.
Bernardez posted a photo of himself eating a banana on Instagram with the caption, “SAY NO TO RACISM.” The 2014 FIFA World Cup bound center back from Honduras was inspired by Alves to post the image.
“I was watching the match with Barcelona versus Villareal when someone threw the banana at Dani Alves,” Bernardez said. “Honestly, it was unsettling to watch. This should not exist in modern soccer.
“Today’s soccer world is different now – it’s better than that. Racism needs to be eradicated and it’s a joy to see footballers from across the world, such as Alves and Neymar, stand up for the cause that this will not be tolerated. It’s an inspirational movement.”
Following the 3-2 win against Villareal, Barcelona teammate Neymar posted a photo on social media of himself eating a banana. Manchester City striker Sergio Aguero followed suit with Brazilian women’s national team star Marta and the movement continued to pick up steam.
Bernardez says the response he’s received has been overwhelmingly positive. Fans and teammates – past and present – have voiced their support and even joined the movement.
“It has all been positive feedback,” he said. “My Honduran teammates have written me saying they’ve been influenced to spread the message and take similar photos. The movement is catching the world by storm. A simple picture shows the world that we as athletes will not tolerate racism and we are all equal. We are all brothers and sisters and we need to show each other respect.”
Go on, Big Vic.
