The anti-discrimination movement in football was shocked last week to learn of the death of Marcin Kornak, chairman and co-founder of the Never Again Association, established in Poland in 1996 as an anti-racist educational and monitoring organisation.

Born in 1968, Marcin Kornak used a wheel chair since the age of 15. He is renowned as a poet and author of lyrics for several independent rock bands.

Major distinctions

Martin was instrumental in initiating campaigns such as ‘Music Against Racism’ and ‘Let’s Kick Racism Out of the Stadiums’. He received two major distinctions for his lifelong work against racism and discrimination.

The 'Man Without Barriers' is an annual award given to an outstanding disabled person who breaks down barriers and stereotypes. The prize is officially supported by the office of Polish President Bronislaw Komorowski and the Polish Human Rights Commissioner.

In a parallel act of recognition, Marcin was included in a group of four civil society leaders who were selected for the 'Social Activist of the Year' award by the Polish edition of Newsweek magazine.

Marcin was the author of several editions of the ‘Brown Book’ which details the results of hate crime monitoring conducted by Never Again. He was also an Ambassador of the Centre for Access to Football in Europe (CAFE).

"An honour to know you"

Joyce Cook, Managing Director of CAFÉ, and a Fare Board member paid testimony, “We send our warmest thoughts and much love to Marcin’s family, friends and colleagues.

“He will be sadly missed by so many people in Poland and Europe for his years of dedicated campaigning for human rights, anti- discrimination and disabled people. God bless you Marcin – it was an absolute honour to know you.”

An illustrated article describing Marcin's achievements appeared on the pages of the Polish 'Newsweek' magazine this week.