The official launch of 'One Glasgow', Glasgow University's first ever equality and diversity week, will kick off with a special football event at the Garscube Sports Complex on Monday 20 February.

The event involves an appearance from Justice Minister Cathy Jamieson, Rangers former player Mark Hately, Celtic coach Tom Boyd, 200 local school children, and representative from the 'Old Firm Alliance'. Tackling important issues such as sectarianism, racism, territorialism and healthy lifestyles, the event aims to educate the next generation of football fans and players.

The official alliance between Rangers and Celtic Football Clubs, the 'Old Firm Alliance', was launched, among other things, to highlight to young people and their parents that sectarian views cause prejudice and hatred, and to drive home the message that sectarianism has no place in Scotland.

Justice Minister Cathy Jamieson said:

'Glasgow University is to be congratulated for putting together this week of exciting and innovative events. This initiative will support the Scottish Executive's own One Scotland campaign in raising awareness of equality issues."

'The Scottish Executive is determined to stamp out hatred and intolerance, however and wherever it rears its head. Earlier this month we launched our Tackling Sectarianism Action Plan - providing a clear lead in challenging this ugly aspect of our culture."

'Such efforts, together with the commitment of those involved, will enable young people to make positive lifestyle choices in a diverse and tolerant Scotland.'

Coaches from both the teams will meet with the school children from local primary and secondary schools, and provide them with positive role models challenging racist and sectarian attitudes. The event will involve each of the school groups taking part in anti-sectarianism seminars and football coaching sessions. It is hoped that the event will build stronger communities as well as boost the confidence of the participants.

David Stewart, Old Firm Alliance Coordinator for Rangers Football Club, added:

"The Old Firm Alliance project is delighted to be involved in this worthwhile event, to promote 'One Glasgow'. The power of football, and the Old Firm, means that both Clubs are ideally placed to deliver educational messages to children.'

'In today's society, football is the currency of the playground for disenfranchised youngsters. Using the power of the Old Firm to enhance participation levels of our supporters and to deliver key messages covering topics such as anti-sectarianism, diet and nutrition, we can demonstrate the benefits of living in a healthy, tolerant society."

Greig Robertson, Old Firm Alliance Co-ordinator for Celtic Football Club, continues:

"Both football clubs have a social responsibility to embrace all sectors of the community. By offering our support in this extremely worthwhile event we can only reinforce all of the meaningful work currently being delivered throughout Scotland and beyond. As a club open to all since its formation in 1888, it is fitting that in 2006 we continue to welcome people from all ethnic backgrounds and religious beliefs into our club."

More events and activities are currently being added to this exciting programme, for fuller details and updates see: http://www.gla.ac.uk/oneglasgow/.

Media Relations Office (media@gla.ac.uk)

A photo opportunity will take place at 10.45am with Justice Minister Cathy Jamieson, Mark Hatley (Rangers FC), Tom Boyd (Celtic FC), Principal of the University Sir Muir Russell and school pupils participating in this event. Please phone the University?s Media Relations Office for further details on 0141 330-3535.

The Garscube Sports Complex is in the West of Scotland Science Park on Maryhill Road.

?One Glasgow? is a stimulating and thought-provoking week of events held at Glasgow University?s from 20-25 February. The aim of the week is to celebrate and explore equality and diversity issues across campus with staff, students, and members of the local community. Events include film, discussion and debate, history, comedy, drama, music, theatre, art, food and much more.

First published: 17 February 2006