A pre-match ceremony highlighting equality and anti-discrimination values was organised by the Jerusalemite club Hapoel Katamon, during a home match against Hapoel Jerusalem, on 28 February.

Before the kick-off, both teams were accompanied to the pitch by Jewish and Arab youth players from across Jerusalem. An anti-racism stadium announcement was also made, while the players performed a pre-match handshake in front of a banner reading ‘Equality is our Victory’.

The initiative, held at the derby match of the Israeli second tier Liga Leumit, aimed to reinforce both clubs’ commitment to eradicate discrimination in football and use the game as a tool for union and inclusion.

Similar pre-match ceremonies are held before every Hapoel Katamon home game as the club states that the principle of equality is consensual among players, owners and fans.‫

The club's social action also includes study centres for youngsters and special activities for women with learning difficulties living in the Arab neighborhoods of Shuafat and Beit Hanina, East Jerusalem.

The initiative was organised with the support of the anti-racism organisation Kick it Out Israel.