The FA "has warned fans against using a derogatory term for Jews in chants at matches," according to the London DAILY MAIL. Variations of "Yid" have often been hurled by rival supporters of Premier League club Tottenham. The FA said the abuse has been "clouded" by fans of Tottenham, which has traditionally drawn a large fan base from the Jewish communities in London, calling themselves the "Yid Army." Determining that using "Yid" is inappropriate at matches, the FA is encouraging fans to avoid using it in "any situation" or risk criminal prosecution (DAILY MAIL, 9/11). In a statement on its website, the FA wrote: "The FA is committed to promoting equality and inclusion in football and to confronting and eliminating discrimination of every kind. The FA appreciates that language is a complex issue: the use and meaning of the words is constantly evolving. As the governing body of football, it is The FA's duty to enforce the Laws of the Game and to send out clear messages about what is and what is not acceptable language within the context of football" (FA).
