Racist chant: what it is and what you can do

A racist chant is a shouted slogan or song meant to insult or threaten people because of their race, ethnicity, or nationality. You most often hear stories about this at sports matches, rallies, or crowded events, but it can happen anywhere. Knowing what it looks like and how to respond helps keep people safe and holds offenders to account.

Racist chants do real damage. They humiliate targeted people, create fear, and can escalate into physical violence. They also hurt communities and spoil events for everyone. That’s why many leagues, venues, and police forces treat racist chanting as a serious offence.

Practical steps if you witness a racist chant

If you hear a racist chant, your safety comes first. If you’re in immediate danger, move away and call emergency services. If it’s safe, try to document what happened: note the time, location, repeat the words exactly if you heard them, and record audio or video on your phone. Evidence makes reports stronger.

Report the incident to authorities who can act: venue staff, event security, the team or organisation running the event, and local police if laws are broken. Use official complaint channels and send your recordings or notes. Many sports leagues and clubs have hotlines or online forms for hate incidents.

Support for victims and community action

If someone you know is targeted, offer immediate support — stay with them, help them leave the area, and encourage a report. Victims often need emotional support; suggest talking to friends, family, or a counsellor. Community groups and anti-racism organisations can also offer advice and legal help.

Organisers and venues must act before chants start. Clear rules, trained stewards, visible reporting points, and swift ejection or bans deter offenders. Public campaigns and visible consequences show that racist abuse won’t be tolerated. If you belong to a club, ask leaders what anti-racism steps are in place and push for better policies if needed.

Bystanders can help in small ways that matter: don’t join in or laugh, record what you safely can, and encourage others to report. When enough people refuse to accept abuse, it becomes harder for chants to spread. Share resources and support victims rather than amplifying the abuse on social platforms.

Daily Africa Global News tracks stories tagged under "racist chant" so you can follow incidents, learn how authorities respond, and see what works to stop abuse. Bookmark the tag for updates and use the guidance here if you ever need to act. Small, practical steps from ordinary people make a big difference in stopping racist chants and protecting targets.