SECTARIAN GAA

[Harry]

anfeardubh said:

Harry I have every sympathy for Ballymena Utd, and accept your version and that of your family and friends. I have no doubt that most supporters are good honest people. But in return I also know that most GAA supporters are good honest people also. But they have been equally tarnished without evidence or proof of sectarianism. But does that mean that sectarianism does not exist in Ballymena Utd or my local GAA club? It is possible that it does not exist but it is more likely that it does exist. So how do I (or you) tackle and confront sectarianism within northern society?
For myself I make it publicly clear to all who will listen, that any form of sectarianism is not tolerated in my presence, and that any individual will be actively pursued to be 'removed'. Despite the fact I have never heard mention of anything sectarian from any individual, I do not think that it does not exist, even below the surface. But we should be wise enough to understand that it is prevalent in our society and that sporting bodies are part of that society.
It is not positive to prove that sectarian chanting did not exist in one case, even if that is the truth. It is a negative action, as it sets a precedent that those who are sectarian can hide behind. We see too often that those who are sectarian use these cases to pretend that it is just another false accusation being hurled from the other community, or from individuals with alternative motives. Sectarianism is a greater threat to our communities advancement than non-sectarianism. So while it is distasteful to be labeled in error or wrongly, the greater threat (sectarianism) is to be given no hiding place, no excuse, no second chance.

Well we'll just have to disagree on this point. I think the opposite in regards to tackling Sectarianism and that it shouldn't be allowed to be thrown about willy nilly and allow groups or individuals to be labelled without proof or evidence. Thats just my personal view as it never really allows to truly establish the extent of sectarianism within sport etc. However yourright stopping sectarianism is the main focus and should be tackled by all means.

[An Fear Dubh]

False accusations should not be thrown about, but they are, so how do you deal with them when they are?

Now any good PR person will tell you that the best way to defend yourself is to hold up you hands and say sorry. No doubt you have seen countless 'celebrities' do this, under the direction of PR guru Max Clifford. They even apologise when they are falsly accused. Why? Because this is the best way to deal with something in the public eye. Nobody believes the pleas of 'innocence', everyone thinks the worst of others.

An issue like Sectarianism is far more important than the sorid life of some 'non-celebrity' but the lessons of how to deal with false and true accusations are still their to be learnt.

At the heart of the matter is that Sectarianism must be confronted, and made to retreat, to become the social pirrah of our society. So the most proven and effective way is to hold up your hands and admit your guilt even when falsely accused and say you want to rid our society of Sectarianism and you are sorry. And the next time DJ is in need of help you sink the boot in hard!

[Harry]

anfeardubh said:

False accusations should not be thrown about, but they are, so how do you deal with them when they are?

Now any good PR person will tell you that the best way to defend yourself is to hold up you hands and say sorry. No doubt you have seen countless 'celebrities' do this, under the direction of PR guru Max Clifford. They even apologise when they are falsly accused. Why? Because this is the best way to deal with something in the public eye. Nobody believes the pleas of 'innocence', everyone thinks the worst of others.

An issue like Sectarianism is far more important than the sorid life of some 'non-celebrity' but the lessons of how to deal with false and true accusations are still their to be learnt.

At the heart of the matter is that Sectarianism must be confronted, and made to retreat, to become the social pirrah of our society. So the most proven and effective way is to hold up your hands and admit your guilt even when falsely accused and say you want to rid our society of Sectarianism and you are sorry. And the next time DJ is in need of help you sink the boot in hard!

I do see your logic but just can't agree with it. Thats just me and no doubt as its something close to me it also effects my feelings. I just can't stand those who stir and lie and use problems within society as a way to manipulate.

[An Fear Dubh]

I agree 100%, I hate mixers too. Ulstermen have boasted proudly of their ability to talk hard and plainly, no matter what. And we respect people who do that back to us. I like to think I do this, we probably all think we do it. I have no problem with people like yourself who are effected emotionally by such things, I am also emotionally effected and feel passionately. I do not like being manipulated and when I recgnise the attempt I work against the manipulation, (unless I work out it suits my ends). Sectarianism is a tool that has been used by various elements to divide and conquer, it is manipulation of emotions, fear of the unknown (fear of the other side). Now we have identified the weapon, we need to neutralize it, to make it non-effective. If someone (and I put you Harry in the progressive branch of Loyalism) like yourself can not take that final step away to totally isolate sectarianism (yes I know it is a false accusation) how can we expect those further down the 'enlightened' road, to be anything but sectarian apologists.
I am not expecting you to have a road to Demascus convertion, to my methods. I am pleased enough that you acknowledge the logic. I understand your position also, but feel it is a weakness that effects many from your community. And my thinking would be that until we see the unionist community move to adopting a more pro-active role we will not make significant progress.