The Quebec Soccer Federation announced last week it has reversed its ban on players wearing turbans or related religious headwear on the pitch.
The QSF is now allowed to resume league action after being suspended by the Canadian Soccer Association for the turban ban.
In their official statement, the QSF said they are 'deeply sorry' if anyone was offended and they are pleased with the international body's clarification on the issue.
Lets cut the crap, they aren't 'sorry' they may have offended people, they are sorry they were punished for their racist actions.
QSF executive-director Brigitte Frot made every excuse possible to justify the racism. She even went to the extent of blaming the English-French language barrier, even though English is her first language.
"We have had trouble communicating our intentions to the public, especially in recent days," said Frot to the CBC. "If we offended or shocked people - particularly in the English community - we want you to know that it wasn't intentional and we want to make a sincere apology for that."
Far from everyone in Quebec agreed with the turban ban, including Quebec Premier Pauline Marois.
"We know that it's not the Quebec reality. And in many countries in the world there are different rules that apply, and we respect one another. And me, I find it sad and it's a shame and it's reprehensible," said Marois to the CBC.
The Saskatchewan Soccer Association allows turbans, as long as it doesn't danger the wearer, because, well, the organization has class and respect.
The SSA chose not to comment on the matter.
It is comforting knowing Canada wouldn't stand for these racist actions in a government-funded organization. Precedents clearly show when rights and freedoms are taken away from societies it usually snowballs.
A famous quote from Martin Niemoller, who was a prominent Protestant pastor, comes to mind for a lesson learned in the slippery slope of intolerance to religious views and lifestyles.
"First they came for the Socialists, and I did not speak out--
Because I was not a Socialist.
Then they came for the Trade Unionists, and I did not speak out--
Because I was not a Trade Unionist.
Then they came for the Jews, and I did not speak out--
Because I was not a Jew.
Then they came for me--and there was no one left to speak for me."
Just to be clear, that isn't comparing the turban ban to the holocaust at all. The quote is meant to show that it's important for societies to stand together against rules and regulations that take away their rights even if it doesn't personally affect them.
