Against racism and hate: TSG supports social media boycott

"A development that is absolutely unacceptable and intolerable. TSG Hoffenheim stands for tolerance, respect and solidarity. We reject any form of racism, discrimination and violence, including in the verbal form," said Holger Kliem, who heads up the media department. As a result, TSG will take part in an initiative staged by English Premier League clubs from 30 April to 3 May, and switch off its social media channels during this time.

As is the case in England, the action is directed at the networks Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. The platforms must do more to eradicate online hate and highlight the importance of the ongoing fight against discrimination, a statement from England's top clubs read. "Racist behaviour of any form is unacceptable and the appalling abuse we are seeing players receive on social media platforms cannot be allowed to continue," Premier League chief executive Richard Masters demanded. In addition to the Premier League clubs, the clubs in the country's top women's league and other clubs in other divisions also want to join the boycott.

"The platforms should actually be a meeting place to share information and openly exchange opinions. Of course, this also includes criticism and engaged, sometimes heated, discussion. However, the rules of respectful interaction should never be disregarded. In the meantime, the social channels have unfortunately become a dumping ground for frustration and hatred in many places. It is time to actively fight for tolerance, respect and humanity there. It has become too easy to create an account on social media and use it to make insults anonymously and without consequences," explained TSG Director of Communications Christian Frommert.

Just a few weeks ago, Hoffenheim players Ryan Sessegnon and Diadie Samassékou were racially insulted on the net.

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