OVER 500 Manchester United fans crowded into a public meeting in
Manchester on 19 May. They were united by their hatred of US-based
billionaire Malcolm Glazer and his takeover plans. They believe their
solidarity can reclaim a club they’ve always seen as belonging to them.
Steve North, Manchester Socialist Party
The fans came to discuss the way to fight not just against Glazer,
but against all profit-hungry fat cats who see football as just a way to
make money. These fans, who live and breathe United, have had enough of
corporate tampering with THEIR club.
Glazer’s hostile takeover sparked a feeling of togetherness that in
time can lead to victory. Supporters swore never to purchase any product
or merchandise that would directly or indirectly furnish Glazer’s
pocket, and promised to use direct protest to bring their message to
Vodafone, Nike, Budweiser and the other vultures who hope for rich
pickings from the club.
We support the boycott and all mass protests called by fans’
organisations. Through democratic, one-member one vote, groups like
Shareholders United supporters pledge to undermine corporate dominance
by producing their own merchandise – wrist-bands, flags, T-shirts – with
every penny going back into the struggle.
Glazer’s takeover was based on fans continuing to buy Nike, Vodafone
and Budweiser. If fans don’t do that, he’ll be in trouble! When he
fails, the fans’ groups will be there with the money and the will to
take back the club and run it for supporters and the wider community.
Barcelona have done it, they say, so can United!
If the fans of one of the world’s best-known corporate bodies can
bring that body under democratic control – to be run for the members not
the profiteers – what message will that send to all those fighting for
true working-class democracy, not just in their football clubs, but in
their workplaces, their communities, their countries?
- Boycott the sponsors!
- Build mass organised resistance to Glazer!
- Kick the fat cats out of football!
