Herman Ouseley, the pioneering anti-racist campaigner and founder of Kick it Out, has passed away at the age of 79 following a brief illness. Lord Ouseley, who chaired Kick it Out for 25 years, dedicated his life to combating racism and discrimination within the world of football. He was appointed to the House of Lords in 2001, where he served as an independent peer.
Kick it Out confirmed Ouseley’s death in a statement, paying tribute to him as a “titan” in the fight against discrimination in football. “Lord Ouseley’s vision to establish Kick It Out marked the first significant structural change in football aimed at addressing a problem that had plagued the sport for decades,” the statement read. “His efforts have left a lasting legacy, making fans and participants more aware of discrimination and equipped to challenge it. We are deeply indebted to him and pledge to continue his work for future generations.”
Ouseley’s contributions extended beyond football. He served as the chair and chief executive of the Commission for Racial Equality from 1993 to 2000 and held the position of chief executive in the London Borough of Lambeth. He migrated to Britain from Guyana with his family in 1957, studied at Catford College in Lewisham, and earned a Municipal Management diploma. Ouseley was knighted in 1997 for his services to local government and community relations in Great Britain. He received 13 honorary degrees from universities across the UK in recognition of his significant contributions to education, anti-racism, and local government.
Troy Townsend, a former footballer and anti-racism campaigner, paid tribute to Ouseley on social media, expressing gratitude for his impact on football and society. The anti-racism organization Race Council Cymru also mourned the loss, describing Ouseley as a “remarkable man” and a “giant of a man in the field of race equity.” They extended their condolences to his family and friends, reflecting on the honor they bestowed upon him with an Icon award in Wales in 2018.
