Best Practice Guide
SPORT IN THE ENVIRONMENT OF NATIONAL MINORITIES
BETWEEN INTEGRATION, ASSIMILATION AND LINGUISTIC DIVERSITY The aim of the project is to create the collaborati- SportSport in in the the Environment Environmen of National Minorities – Betweent Integration,ve partnerships Assimilation and between Linguistic sports Diversity clubs, which are active in the social environment of di erent of National Minorities national and ethnic minorities. – Between Integration, Networking has its beginning with the several transnational project meetings (meeting of each Assimilation partner organized).
and Linguistic Diversity Participants will not only be engaged in the reali- zation of the project people, but also people who work in those sports clubs that are active in the eld of national minorities in other European countries. Each meeting will last 3 Sport days and there are about 12 people in the Environment attend. of National Minorities To strengthen the cooperation, an Internet contact platform will be develop. The target group of this web-side will be all national and ethnic minorities from all Europe.
As a summary of the project we plan an international children's sport meeting.
During the event many teams from various national minorities can meet, children will play sports and coaches and sta tie networks and share expe- riences.
As a product with a guide "Best Practi- ce" is being developed, where all part- ners present its pattern projects.
COORDINATOR:
Niemieckie Towarzystwo Oświatowe, Polska Deutsche Bildungsgesellschaft www.dbg.vdg.pl www.os.1919.pl
PARTNERS:
Vilniaus Sporto Klubas Polonia, Lithuania, Asociatia Pentru Tineret si Sport ERDELY- I usa- gi es Sport Egyesulet, Romania, 2 University of the Basque Country, Spain, Makkabi Deutschland e.V., Germany. Best Practice Guide
COORDINATOR Niemieckie Towarzystwo Oświatowe (German Educational Society), is an association active in the community of Germans living in Poland in the Upper Silesia region. This organization is specializing in educational opportunities, school projects and sport involvement. It implements projects that combines education and physical activity. It also works for multiculturalism and the consistent cooperation of all res- idents of Silesia region.
SportAkademie OS1919 Deutsche Bildungsgesellschaft
PARTNERS:
The project’s partners are 4 organizations active in communities of national and ethnic minorities in various European countries.
Vilniaus Sporto Klubas Polonia, Asociatia Pentru Tineret si Sport University of the Basque Makkabi Deutschland Lithuania, – ERDELY – Ifjusagi es Sport Country, Spain, e.V., Germany Egyesulet, Romania
PROJECT ERASMUS+ SPORT PROGRAMME 2016 Support to Collaborative Partnerships
Project Number: 590421-EPP-1-2017-1-PL-SPO-SSCP
Erasmus+ is the EU Programme in the fields of education, training, youth and sport for the period 2014–2020. Education, training, youth and sport can make a major contribution to help tackle socio socio-economic changes, the key challenges that Europe will be facing until the end of the decade and to support the imple- mentation of the European policy agenda for growth , jobs, equity and social inclusion.
3 Sport in the Environment of National Minorities – Between Integration, Assimilation and Linguistic Diversity
INTRODUCTION – SPORT IN THE WORLD BETWEEN GLOBALIZATION AND CULTURAL IDENTITY Bartosz Prabucki, specialist in traditional sports and games, author of the blog: www.inspirowanysportem.pl
In the current world, where globalization is some- and a mirror of society. Sport is a great tool, helping times a threat for collective identities of many com- various social groups to maintain, protect, express munities, especially ethnic and national minorities, and promote their collective identities, so important they need tools to maintain and express these iden- in the globalised world. tities. They use their cultural heritage, helping them to distinguish one from another. The elements of Ethnic groups and national this heritage are, among others, language, territory, minorities maintaining their identity religion, customs and history. One of the strongest through sport elements of culture, used to this aim, is also sport. Ethnic and national minorities are those especially prone to fight for maintaining their own identity and Sport as an element of collective culture. One of the most interesting examples in this identity context are the Basques and Scots. Sport is nowadays a global phenomenon. Derived from ancient, traditional plays and games, it has been The Basques and their quest for evolving through centuries to gain its current status. self-identity It has many variations and dimensions – it can be The Basques are a very interesting group, living in professional, amateur, recreational, national, region- two political states – France and Spain – but having al, local etc. their own territory called Basque Country. It is a cul- tural area at which an ethnic group using Basque But sport is not only physical activity. It is not only language (Euskara) live. The Basques need to face a about competition, records, medals or practice at specific situation – they are surrounded by two big- recreational level to maintain good health. As many ger nations – French and Spanish – and separated research have shown, sport is much more – it (and into two states. This particular situation was and still has always been) a significant expression of culture is a difficult, but also interesting, situation of an ethnic group and, at the same time, national minority living in Europe, having its own territory, language, customs and identity, but being deprived of their own state and the possibility to rule over its own area.
In this situation, the Basques have developed a really strong sense of collective identity. They use some elements of their unique culture (religion, language, songs, poetry, dance, cuisine etc.) to maintain, pro- mote and express it. One of them is sport.
Relations between sport and identity in the Basque Country We can ask – how the Basques use sport to express their own identity? The examples are many – one of the most interesting are Basque traditional sports, played, among others, during their famous feast – A friendly match of pelota a mano (with bare hands) – Aste Nagusia, Bilbao, 2013 (photo: Bartosz Prabucki) Aste Nagusia (Eng. Great Week).
4 Best Practice Guide
During Aste Nagusia, there is a friendly tournament, played at a special pelota court, called el fronton. There are also workshops at which instructors pres- ent this game and teach people how to play. Every- one can try.
Including a pelota tournament in the programme of Aste Nagusia – a feast of Basque identity, considered a treasure of Basque culture, and organising open workshops dedicated to this sport, is an obvious prove, that this sport is for the Basques something more than just an entertainment – it is an important element of their identity and culture. Workshops for everyone – la pelota vasca (Basque Ball), Aste Nagusia, Bilbao, 2013 (photo: Bartosz Prabucki) Other sports, played at Aste Nagusia, are rural sports, called in Basque herri kirolak. This is a group name Aste Nagusia is an annual, big feast (fiesta) which is a for Basque sports associated with their traditional great expression of Basque culture. You can see, for way of living and working. Many of them are derived instance, Mari – Basque goddess – the main figure from past Basque labours, such as timber sports like of their mythology – who comes to Bilbao to start the Aizkolariak, consisting in cutting wooden trunks as fiesta. There are also many elements of Basque cul- fast as possible using axes. These sports are an ex- ture – dance, cuisine, songs and special, improvised pression of traditional Basque traits – force, power poetry (Betrzolaritsa) etc. Very important elements of and strong character and treated as important parts every fiesta are also Basque, traditional sports. of their identity.
The most popular of them is called la pelota vasca Second example – Scottish identity (eng. Basque ball). It is a sport similar to squash. The and sport main task is to hit the ball against the wall so as your The Scots are a nation being in a different situation opponent could not hit it. Depending on variety, you to the Basques as thy have their own political terri- use a bare hand or different kinds of racquets (in- tory – Scotland. However, they have been fighting for cluding a very specific one, a curved, basket-shaped centuries to be fully independent from the British. racquet called la chistera).
Pelota is one of the most significant elements of Basque identity. The origins of this sport, the spe- cific style of playing it, the differentiation between pelota and other sports, the rivalry between the Basques and the Spaniards in the past and a simple consideration it by the Basques as “our own sport” have made this sport unique. Nowadays, it has both amateur and professional variants. It is played by men and women. There are even special schools of pelota, tournaments and leagues. There were even attempts to include it into the programme of the Olympic Games. Regardless its modern variants and contemporary professionalization, it remains an im- portant element of Basque national identity. Many Basques know pelota and watch matches regularly – especially older men, but also younger ones, women Aizkolariak (cutting the trunks) – Aste Nagusia, Bilbao, 2013 (photo: and children. Bartosz Prabucki)
5 Sport in the Environment of National Minorities – Between Integration, Assimilation and Linguistic Diversity
and sophisticated dances, cuisine (whisky, Scottish pie etc.), popular culture (e.g. a movie Braveheart), heroes (William Wallace, Robert Burns), poetry and other elements of their collective culture.
One of its most significant elements, used regularly to maintain Scottish identity, is also sport. Among the most important sports, used in this context, are traditional sports, practiced in the entire Scotland, but especially during famous Scottish feasts called Highland Games and Gatherings.
The oldest ones date back to XI century and were as- sociated with traditional way of spending leisure time in Britain – hunting. Nowadays, they have turned into
Harri jasotzea (lifting up the stones) – Aste Nagusia, Bilbao, 2013 being a feast of Scottish cultural identity, including (photo: Bartosz Prabucki) important elements of their national heritage. There are many Highland Games scattered throughout the entire country. Nowadays, despite its quest for independence, Scot- land is still partly dependent from Britain, being a These feasts are full of symbols of Scotland. They national minority in the United Kingdom. usually start with a parade of bagpipers, playing tra- ditional, Celtic music. Afterwards, you can experience The Scots have developed a strong sense of collective Scottish dances, treat you with their cuisine, see na- identity. They maintain, promote and express it, using tional flags, listen to regional songs etc. However, a very unique set of cultural elements and symbols, the most important part of these feasts are Scottish among others by wearing their national costume with traditional sports. peculiar kilts (tartan skirts) and playing their music us- ing bagpipes – a characteristic instrument. They have The Scots have many such sports, derived usual- their own history, Celtic heritage, territory, unique ly from former labour activities, such as tossing
A. First phase of a throw B. A thrown caber, Tossing the caber – Highland Games, Bridge of Throwing a weight over a bar – Highland Games, falling on „the other” end Allan, 2014 (photo: Bartosz Prabucki) Bridge of Allan, 2014, (photo: Bartosz Prabucki)
6 Best Practice Guide
Scottish backhold – Highland Games, Bridge of Allan, 2014 (photo: Bartosz Prabucki) the caber – consisting in throwing, with bare hands, athletes compete in traditional disciplines, wearing huge, wooden logs so as they land on its “other” kilts. The feasts are usually ended by the speeches of end in a straight line; hammer throw, sheaf tossing the organisers and prominent guests and by another – throwing a bag of hay over a bar, weight throwing, parade of bagpipers. putting the shot – throwing a heavy weight over a bar and others. Through the centuries, these old feasts of Scottish cultural heritage have of course developed and A separate discipline, in this context, is backhold – changed. They have been professionalized and com- Scottish traditional style of wrestling. mercialised. There are sponsors, modern competi- tion features (results, records, prices), modernisation These sports are usually competitions between of their programmes, more and more tourists visiting the strongest men in Scotland (and from outside them and so on. However, until today, they remain a the country as they are open to everyone). Scottish very important event used by the Scots to maintain, manifest and express their collective identity.
Other examples There are of course many other ethnic and national minorities who use sport to maintain, promote and express their collective identities: Bretons in France, Catalans in Spain, Flamands in Belgium, Frisians in the Netherlands, Silesians in Poland and many oth- ers. Sport is for them a valuable part of their cultural heritage that they can be proud of and which is one of the most important elements of ethnic and na- tional identity.
Scottish backhold – Highland Games, Bridge of Allan, 2014 (photo: Bartosz Prabucki)
7 Sport in the Environment of National Minorities – Between Integration, Assimilation and Linguistic Diversity
FOOTBALL AS AN ELEMENT OF NATIONAL IDENTITY Bartosz Prabucki, specialist in traditional sports and games, author of the blog: www.inspirowanysportem.pl
As mentioned in the previous text, ethnic and nation- minorities and smaller nations who use football to al identity is very important in the current, globalised underline their existence and identity. One such world. It is not true that local and regional, ethnic a nation are Catalans – their national football team identities and minorities are only disappearing as and famous, football club – FC Barcelona. a consequence of globalisation. They are of course endangered, but, on the other hand, they maintain, FOOTBALL AS AN ELEMENT promote and express their national identities in re- OF CATALAN IDENTITY action to these trends. Moreover, nowadays, national and ethnic identity flourishes, using and promoting a. Catalans and their national their own, cultural elements, including sport. identity Catalans are a nation having a specific situation when Sport as a tool, helping in maintaining and promot- it comes to their national identity. They have their ing national identities of many ethnic groups, nations own territory, culture, identity, political instruments and national minorities, has been known since its be- and history, but they don’t have a fully independent ginning. Among its disciplines, one of the most strik- country, being one of the European “nations without ing examples in this context is football. a state”. They are still partially dependent from Spain and this fact has always been a challenge for Cata- This most popular sport discipline in the world has lans. They have therefore developed a strong sense been developing through centuries, serving not only of national, collective identity, using, among others, to satisfy physical needs of populations, but playing football to maintain, promote and express it. also important, social and cultural roles. One of them is definitely being an element, instrument or tool of b. national team of Catalonia maintaining and expressing ethnic and national iden- Catalans have their own national football team. It is tities of many communities. still not allowed to play in official, international compe- titions under the auspices of UEFA or FIFA. However This role of football has also been known for cen- they have been playing some unofficial matches since turies. It has been used to indicate the division of 1904. Its identity-related role was especially visible two social or ethnic groups who played sport games, during the General Francisco Franco regime in Spain treating them as a symbol of social, political, cultur- (1936–75). He was trying to unite Spanish state, pro- al or religious divisions. There are some well-known hibiting the use of Catalan language and repressing examples of using football to show the supremacy of any kind of their culture and identity. In this situation, one nation over another (e.g. XX centuries’ fascist and national football team has become one of the most Nazis regimes) or the predominance of one political important symbols of Catalan opposition to these system over another (socialism vs. capitalism etc.). repressions. Catalans were supporting their team, strongly denigrating the Spanish one. They felt safer, However, there are also many examples of us- expressing their national feelings in the crowds at the ing football to maintain and express nation- stadiums. Until today, Catalonia plays international al or ethnic identity in a more positive way. matches. Catalans have their own football federation. It happens especially among ethnic groups, It still remains an element of their national identity.
8 Best Practice Guide
Entrance to Camp Nou – in the middle: “un club catala” – Catalonian club. A clear connection between the club and Catalonia (phot. Bartosz Prabucki)
c. FC Barcelona – “a Pride other-than-Spanish cultures. He closed Catalan par- of Catalonia” liament and all elements of Catalan culture, like mu- However, even more important football element of sic, dance, cuisine or language were forbidden. this identity is a famous football club – FC Barcelo- na. It was founded by a Suisse businessman – Hans FC Barcelona suffered from these repressions too. Gamper with his English, German and Austrian part- Its acronyms were changed to sound more “Spanish” ners in 1899. This club was from the very begging (from FC – football club to CF – club de futbol), Cata- strongly associated with Catalan identity. Its founder lan symbols were modified, national flag prohibited. was attached to that and he even changed his name Franco supported the biggest rival of Barcelona – for Catalan Joan. Under his rules, in the early XX cen- centralistic Real Madrid. tury, FC Barcelona created its sport uniforms contain- ing Catalan symbols – national colours and the cross However, Catalans strongly opposed to that and a of Saint George – a patron of Catalonia. Its President football stadium became again a great place for them was openly supporting autonomous aspirations of to openly express this opposition and their national Catalonia which resulted in developing strong inter- feelings. Songs, national anthem, Catalan flag, nation- connections between Catalan national identity and al colours, rivalry against Real Madrid – there were FC Barcelona – symbol of Catalan culture and a tool important expressions of Catalan national identity in used in fighting for their cultural and political rights. opposition to the Spanish one.
In the XX century FC Barcelona has become even When General Franco died in 1975, Catalonia slow- more important to Catalan identity, as Catalans were ly regained its autonomous status and freedom to struggling for survival and their rights under the re- promote and express their identity and to rule over gime of – first dictator Primo de Rivera – and then its own territory. FC Barcelona regained its Catalan the above-mentioned Francisco Franco. He tried symbols, colours etc. Moreover, it developed a strong to unite Spanish state, by destroying all aspects of club motto in Catalan language “Mes que un club
9 Sport in the Environment of National Minorities – Between Integration, Assimilation and Linguistic Diversity
(more than a club)” – becoming even stronger asso- other clubs in Spain, there are no royal elements ciated with Catalonia and its values. Since 1957, the here, associated with Spanish monarchy. Instead, club has been playing at a new stadium, called Camp there are Catalan symbols – the above-mentioned Nou – until now a significant element of its identity, cross of Saint George – a patron of Catalonia and treated sometimes nearly as a temple. legendary Catalonian national colours. Even the acronym FC is symbolic – Barcelona is a “Football Nowadays, as many researchers and FC Barcelona Club” and not “Club de Futbol” – like other Spanish players claim, this club is still a very important ele- clubs. In lower part of this arms there are also club ment of Catalan national identity. It is even more colours – maroon and navy blue (that is why Barce- visible, as its many players have grown up in famous lona is called Blaugrana). These colours are often Barcelona football academy – “la Masia”. Other play- mixed with the Catalan ones, creating together a ers rapidly associated with Catalan identity. Authori- simple and unequivocal symbiosis of FC Barcelona ties of FC Barcelona are constantly trying to promote and Catalonia. this cultural heritage, combining it with modern sport marketing, creating from this club a kind of an Another element in this context is club’s anthem Els ethnic brand. Segadors, performed when Barcelona plays at Camp Nou. Thanks to that, home matches of this club have Nowadays, the power of brands, marketing and in- become a kind of a nationalistic manifestation – many ternational corporations (such as modern football Catalans wave their national flags (called senyeras), clubs) are constantly increasing. FC Barcelona has singing Els Segadors and talking to each other only in also become such a brand, but strongly linked to eth- Catalan language. nicity and cultural values – it is a Catalan club and its supporters (called socios) want to identify it with Among other examples, one can find club’s values – Catalan national identity. democracy, freedom, cosmopolitism, human rights, openness and inclusiveness – typical also for Cata- Among many symbols, creating from this club an lan national identity. Moreover, Camp Nou is a place ethnic brand, is its arms. In opposition to many when an important Catalan feast is being celebrated
Camp Nou – a famous slogan “mes que un club” – written in the middle of the stands (phot. Bartosz Prabucki)
10 Best Practice Guide
Museum of FC Barcelona – a book as a tribute paid to the clubs’ founder – Hans (Joan) Gamper, 1923 (phot. Bartosz Prabucki)
– l’Onze de Setembre (11th of September) – national wedding at Camp Nou what is really attractive to day of Catalonia. There are also presentations of Cat- many couples. alan, national dance – sardana. We can add an impor- tant, religious image of Catalonia – a figure of Black Another important element of this ethnic brand cre- Madonna from Montserrat monastery – the most im- ation is relationships with fans (socios). Those who portant centre of Virgin Mary cult in Catalonia. This pay an annual fee and are officially registered as figure is situated at the entrance to the FC Barcelona Barcelona fans have become a kind of co-owners of academy – la Masia and in the chapel at Camp Nou. the club. They have some influence on the develop- ment and decision-making processes in FC Barcelo- These elements constitute FC Barcelona a symbol na. They are also responsible for creating a unique of Catalan identity – strongly associated with it, ex- atmosphere at Camp Nou – full of, as we already pressed by many Catalans, recognised all over the know, Catalan symbols. world. This club is not only “more than a club” – is also called “the Pride of Catalonia” which is an obvious FC Barcelona has also one of the biggest sport stores link between this club and Catalan national identity. in Europe – la Botiga. You can buy there many sou- venirs, clothes, mugs and other things – of course FC Barcelona is not only a football club, is also a strongly associated with the club and Catalonia. corporation with high income. Their authorities com- There is also a big museum of the history of FC Bar- bine ethnic identity and national values of this club celona where you can experience the uniqueness of with sport marketing. They use ethnic symbols to the club. This institution is one of the most frequently attach supporters’ feelings to the club. They organise visited places in the entire Catalonia. social campaigns, take part in many corporate social responsibility activities, travel to another countries All these elements are a great example of the con- for tournee trying to attract new fans from all over nection between football and national identity. the world, offer to their fans a bunch of services, FC Barcelona as a football club has become a symbol such as business meetings at Camp Nou’s conference of Catalonia and an important element of Catalan halls, sponsorship and partnership agreements, ad- national identity. It combined ethnic and cultural el- vertisements and so on. You can even organise a ements, linked to the history and identity of Catalonia
11 Sport in the Environment of National Minorities – Between Integration, Assimilation and Linguistic Diversity
Tartan skirts – kilts – one of the most recognisable symbols of Scottish identity, used very often in sport (phot. Bartosz Prabucki)
(anthem, arms, national colours, a flag, values, local competitions, such as European and World Cups. academy – la Masia, a slogan – “the pride of Cata- This fact is for the Scots a reason to be proud of lonia” etc.) with modern sport marketing, successes their independence and possibility to represent their of the club, its global popularity and social activities own country at the international level. They have also as a development of another slogan – “more than a their own football league, which is independent from club”. Thanks to the global popularity of football, FC the English one. Barcelona has developed a kind of an ethnic brand – an international company based on national and The supporters of Scottish national team are called identity-related elements and values. Tartan Army. This is identity-related name, as tartan skirts, called kilts, are one of the most important FOOTBALL AND ITS ROLE elements of Scottish identity and uniqueness in the IN SCOTLAND world. Tartan Army is regarded as supporters mani- Another example are Scots. In the previous text I festing their national identity in a peaceful manner. briefly described Scottish, traditional sports and their At the 1992 European Championships in Stockholm significant role in the context of Scottish national and they were praised by Swedish police as peaceful ethnic identity. When it comes to football, the Scots and friendly fans acting completely different than have also interesting contexts in this matter. English fans. Their behaviour was for them a source of pride. Even though Tartan Army is sometimes di- a. Tartan Army and Scottish vided, as it contains both fans of Celtic Glasgow and national football team Rangers FC – antagonised Scottish football clubs As above-mentioned Catalans, Scots have their own – this time it was united in supporting a national national football team. However, contrary to Catalo- Scottish football team and in acting against the nia, Scotland can take part in official, international English one. Scottish identity and nationalism are
12 Best Practice Guide
often directed against England – their “old enemy”. as the latter club had its serious problems and now Football matches between Scotland and England is struggling to regain its power. are sometimes descried by the press as almost me- dieval battles. However, football is still an important sport in Scot- land. Being inscribed into Scottish identity and na- b. Celtic Glasgow and Rangers FC – tionalism is a distinctive element of their cultural football Old Firm Derby identity. The Scots are proud of having their own, Another example is an old rivalry between two best separated football league and their own, independ- Scottish football teams – Celtic Glasgow and Rangers ent national team. As some scientists claim, Scottish FC. It is called Old Firm Derby. It is directly inscribed people are sometimes “90-minutes patriots”, ex- into Scottish national identity and political, class and pressing their identity more often and stronger at religious divisions in Scottish society. football stadiums than through political activities.
Class divisions seem to belong more to the past OTHER EXAMPLES when there was a clear division between working As for traditional sports, in football there are also and middle class in Scotland. The first one was as- many other examples all over the world showing sociated with football while the latter with rugby. the meaning of this sport as an element directly in- Religion and political divisions however are still vivid scribed into the process of maintaining, expressing in Scottish society and are directly associated with and promoting national identity of many nations an Celtic and Rangers. ethnic groups. Let’s take Brazil and the role of foot- ball in this country, treated there almost as a religion, Celtic is a catholic club – from the very begging sup- Germany and Italy and its political role in these states porting the poor, catholic immigrants from Ireland. in XX century, many ethnic groups trying to manifest As its name clearly indicates, this club is strongly its existence by playing football and so on. linked to Celtic ethnicity and culture – one of the most important “ingredients” of Scottish identity. I deliberately described here both the examples of in- When it comes to politics, Celtic fans are often at- tegrative role of football in maintaining and express- tached to Irish identity and opposed to the British ing national and ethnic identities as well as some monarchy and the idea of United Kingdom and the divisive ones. Britishness. As we will see on the next pages, football can play a On the other hand, FC Rangers was founded by very important, integrative, social and cultural role rich, protestant citizens of Glasgow. It is a club in the current world in international relationships, associated with British identity and it openly sup- related to national and ethnic identities of many com- ports the royal values of Great Britain and the idea munities, including national and ethnic minorities. of monarchy. The fans of this club are sometimes dressed in orange shirts and they wave orange flags. This colour is a symbol of an overthrow of a catholic monarchy in XVII century. They also wave British flags. The colours of their club – blue, red and white – symbolize the colours of United King- dom (union jack). They combine anti-Catholic and pro-British attitudes.
I only indicated briefly some selected examples of Celtic and Rangers’ characteristics, showing social, religious and political divisions in Scotland. These differences are very important elements of Scottish identity and are shown through sport. Currently, the rivalry between Celtic and Rangers is not so strong,
13 Sport in the Environment of National Minorities – Between Integration, Assimilation and Linguistic Diversity
GERMAN MINORITY IN POLAND
UMBRELLA ORGANISATION: Verband der deutschen sozial-kulturellen Gesellschaften in Polen (VdG) http://www.vdg.pl
The Germans in Poland During the communist dictatorship, the authorities The Germans were present in the area of the new- claimed there were no Germans living in Poland and born Polish country since the very beginning of the all of them had been deported after the World War Polish state that is the 10th century. II. The Polish People’s Republic was to be a monon- ational country. Relationships between the first Polish rulers and aristocratic families and the German emperors’ court The crucial year of 1989 and fall of the communist are the evidence of close cooperation between both dictatorship in Poland gave the opportunity for peo- countries in numerous areas. Poland acknowledged ple feeling German to organise. Since that time, the Christianity from the West so the first missionaries Germans in Poland have been able to carry political, came to Poland from the Sacred Roman Empire, at cultural and educational activity freely, they can use the head of which stood German emperors. their right to learn German as a language of minority. In reaching their goals they are supported both by At turn of the 12th and 13th centuries, lots of Ger- the Polish and German governments. man settlers came t Poland, having been invited by the Polish rulers and dukes. They set up settlements Currently, most German minority organisations in and cities. Poland are members of the Union of German Social and Cultural Associations. The German minority is Beginning from the 12th century, a gradual process estimated to 150 thousand people. of leaving the Polish Crown by many regions, Silesia among others, took place. In 1335 the Polish king Kazimierz III Great resigned from the Silesian duch- ies passing them to the Czech kings. Since that time, for 400 years, the Polish-German border remained untouched and was one of the most stable Europe- an borders. The current Polish-German border was designated by the Postdam Conference in 1945.
Between 1945 –1950, approximately 3,2 million Ger- mans were deported from the lands assigned to the Polish administration. In their place, Polish citizens from the area occupied by the Soviet Union were settled.
14 Best Practice Guide
PROJECT 1
Ernst Willimowski Turnier Youth Football Tournament of the Autochtonous National Minorities in Europe Leader: Deutsche Bildungsgeselischaft
Country: Poland www.willimowski.pl
PARTNERS:
Deutsche Bildungsgesellschaft Cukunft Jewish Association, Wrocław, Poland
Ernst Willimowski Tournament is a major sporting event that combines the fair competition of a Euro- pean sports festival with issues concerning autoch- thonous, national minorities. The focus is on peaceful and tolerant co-existence, diversity, and preservation of Europe’s cultural and linguistic heritage, and the opportunity to experience it here.
The tournament is organized every year, in summer, in southern Poland. Participation in the tournament can be taken by all teams representing one of the Eu- ropean national or ethnic minorities, also club teams, as well as those who set-up only to perform in the tournament.
The tournament is complemented by cultural and entertainment events. Contestants and trainers have the opportunity to spend a few days not only on playing football, but also can get to know each other, exchange experiences and get to know sport projects implemented for national minorities in dif- ferent countries.
15 Sport in the Environment of National Minorities – Between Integration, Assimilation and Linguistic Diversity
PROJECT 2
Fussballschule.PL kicken und deutsch lernen Leader: Deutsche Bildungsgesellschaft
Country: Poland www.fussballschule.pl
PARTNERS:
UKS Varsovia Województwo Opolskie Deutscher Die Deutschsprachige Deutsche Bildungsgesellschaft Warszawa (Opole Province) Fußball-Bund e.V. Gemeinschaft Belgiens (DG)
The project involves the preparation of German language lessons, implemented in sports clubs and schools. Classes are combined, consist of 2 parts:
• Before the football training a German language lesson takes place, using the materials prepared in the project. The lesson lasts depending on the students’ progress from 20 to 45 minutes. The lesson is taught by a German teacher.
• Fotball training led by a qualified trainer who uses model training units prepared by Polish, German and Belgian experts.
The project is available to all clubs and schools from Poland and around the world.
16 Best Practice Guide
PROJECT 3
MIRO Deutsche Fussballschule Leader: Sozial-Kulturelle Gesellschaft der Deutschen im Oppelner Schlesien (SKGD)
Country: Poland www.mirofussballschule.pl
PARTNERS:
Deutsche Bildungsgesellschaft Goethe Institut Kraków SKGD
The main goal of Miro Deutsche Fußballschule is to connect football, learning mother tongue and multi- cultural understanding between polish and german peoples leaving in Poland. Over the linguistic correct- ness supervised by the Goethe Institute in Cracow, who created special exercises for children and hired an assistant who oversees the work of trainers. With these methods of training, participants are making progress language in football and develop as well as their counterparts from traditional schools.
SKGD runs 13 local football schools (stand June 2018), which trains almost 500 children aged 6–12. Trainings are led by trainers who know at least the basics of the German language.
17 Sport in the Environment of National Minorities – Between Integration, Assimilation and Linguistic Diversity
PROJECT 4
Participation at EUROPEADA – Football Championship of the autochtonous national minorities in Europe Leader: Verband der deutschen sozial-kulturellen Gesellschaften in Polen (VdG)
EUROPEADA 2020 Koroška Kärnten
Od 2008 roku, Mniejszość Niemiecka z Polski wysyła drużynę na EUROPEADĘ. Zgodnie z regulaminem turnieju zawodnicy to amatorzy, grający na co dzień w lokalnych amatorskich klubach.
Udział w turnieju oprócz wymiaru sportowego ma duże znaczenie integracyjne i promocyjne.
In 2020, the EUROPEADA – the European football championship of the autochthonous national minor- ities, will take place for the 4th time.
Following the EUROPEADA, in 2008 hosted by the Ro- mansh people in Grisons/Switzerland, in 2012 host- ed by the Lusatian Sorbs in Germany and in 2016 hosted by the German-speaking South Tyroleans and the Ladins in South Tyrol/Italy, will the EUROPEADA be hosted by the Carinthian Slovenes with the mot- to “The EUROPEADA 2020 in Carinthia/Koroška –TO- GETHER UNIQUE/SKUPNO ENKRATNI – together we celebrate the uniqueness of our diversity in Europe“.
Organizatorem turnieju jest FUEN – Federal Union of European Nationalities
18 Best Practice Guide
PROJECT 5
Mobile exhibition: Górnoślązacy w polskiej i niemieckiej reprezentacji narodowej w piłce nożnej – wczoraj i dziś. Leader: House for Polish-German Cooperation
Country: Poland
Upper Silesians in Polish and German National Foot- On each re-vernissage the exhibition hosted TV and ball Teams – now and then. Sports and politics in radio reporters from German ZDF, Polish TVP1 Tele- Upper Silesia in the 20th century. express and TVP3 Katowice, among others.
The exhibition shows an intricate history of Upper The exhibition is accompanied by a publication (in Silesian footballers in the 20th century. It is an at- Polish and German) dedicated to Upper Silesian foot- tempt to present the difficult and multithreaded his- ballers, the Upper Silesian sports history and politi- tory of Upper Silesia, its inhabitants and Polish-Ger- cal turbulence, which summarises the exhibition and man relations in a different form, through the prism creates its guidebook. of sports. The exhibition is designed in the way to remind and increase the awareness of how a lot of The exhibition consists of the following elements: sport talents were born and raised in Upper Silesia and then, due to the complexities and specifics of the • 16 plates, 32 banners Upper Silesian history, played both in the Polish and in the German national teams. Legendary footballers • width 100 cm x 105 cm like Ernst Wilmowski (Pradulla), Gerard Cieślik and Ernst Pohl as well as contemporary football players • height 30 cm x 250 cm from Upper Silesia, e.g. Miroslav Klose, Lukas Podol- ski and Sebastian Boenisch – symbolise the destiny of Upper Silesians.
The exhibition presents world rank footballers who were frequently forced by political events to make the most difficult career and life choices. The achieve- ments of the Silesian footballers in the light of the 20th century turmoil can teach a lesson of the local and regional history. At the same time, to understand the history of Upper Silesian sportsmen, one should look from the wide European perspective.
Since the first opening in the Conference Centre of Silesian Stadium in Chorzów in June 2006, the exhi- bition has gained unflagging popularity. It has been mentioned in numerous local magazines and nation- al newspapers (“Rzeczpospolita”, “Gazeta Wyborcza”), each time highlighting the uniqueness of this project.
19 Sport in the Environment of National Minorities – Between Integration, Assimilation and Linguistic Diversity
HUNGARIANS IN ROMANIA
UMBRELLA ORGANISATION: Democratic Alliance of Hungarians in Romania http://www.dahr.ro
After the defeat of Central powers in World War 1, Democratic Alliance of Hungarians in Romania has over 3 million ethnic Hungarians were separated 30 MPs (6,4% in 2016), 2 MEPs (in 2014), 208 may- from the state of Hungary as a result of the political ors in Transylvania, and 5 heads of county councils reorganization of Central Europe. The new states at serving in government. the time such as Czechoslovakia, Yugoslavia, and Ro- manian devastated the Hungarian community. After Long-term RMDSZ strives for a strong and mod- the defeat of Hungary in the second World War, any ern Hungarian community in Romania. It is desired realistic hope of regaining territories was lost. to have a country that respects European recom- mendations and its own citizens, and a community Yet Romania’s population and land of the state dou- that can protect its culture, language and identity, bled, amounting to 18 million. While only twothirds of a community that develops through education, in- its people were Romanian, one-third were Hungari- novation, mobility. One of the main goals of RMDSZ an, German, Jewish, Bulgarian, South Slavic, Ukrainian is to abolish negative discrimination towards na- and Roma (with Hungarian being the largest). tional minorities.
Now, there are currently 1.2 million Hungarian living in RMSDZ is a member of the Unrepresented Nationas Romania due to the land separation. They specifically & Peoples Organization. RMDSZ managed to secure live in the region known as “Transylvania”. While a 25% rights for Hungarians via electoral gains during the decrease since the 1992 census, they are still the larg- 1990s and early 2000s. As Members of UNPO they est national minority in the EU living in one country. continued to advocate for the concept of “cultural autonomy” within a Romanian State and their right The Hungarian community in Transylvania serves as to a local government and self-determination. a bridge between the two countries: Romania and Hungary. The economic and cultural benefits of this cannot be overstated. To those who identify as Hun- garian in Transylvania it does not mean not ethnic Romanians nor from Hungary.
Over a century has passed since Hungarians became a minority community from majority. It’s in the Hun- garian interest that Romania becomes a strong, de- veloped, modern state, where all communities can live in peace, security and mutual respect.
Hungarians are represented by the Democrat- ic Alliance of Hungarians (RMDSZ). Currently the
20 Best Practice Guide
PROJECT 1
Transylvanian Hungarian High School Sport Olympics
Country: Romania http://sportolimpia.ro
PARTNERS:
Romaniai Magyar Erdély - Ifjúsági és Testnevelő Babeș-Bolyai Romániai Magyar Facultatea de Educație Demokrata Szövetség Sport Egyesület Tanárok Országos Tudományegyetem Pedagógusok Fizică și Sport Communitas Tanácskozása Szövetsége Alapítvány
It all started in 2005 from the idea of the staff mem- have all together 29 competitions in single, double bers to create an event that brings young people and team matches. Among the important tasks of closer together, especially the sports lovers. the new event, educating young people on a healthy lifestyle is still a prominent place. At first it was going by the name „Erdély Kupa” (Tran- sylvania Cup), where the number of participants grew Our goal is for the students to enjoy regular exercise, year by year. With our series of events we were able see the benefits of an active lifestyle, and raise aware- to attract the attention of more and younger people ness of its benefits. The Olympics is also a possibility to the importance of movement, healthy lifestyle, fair- for the students to introduce themselves and with play, community and team spirit. more substantial financial and professional support and infrastructure can stand out as top sportier. It is The competitions have proved to be a strong hub equally important for us the communi – cation with for students and teachers, the cooperation between the physical education teachers as they are the ones teachers in different settlements has become more who shape and influence the relation – ship between direct and intense. At the same time, the „Erdély children and sports. Kupa” provided a solid foundation for the develop- ment and maintenance of communication between different schools, for the exchange of experiences and for participation in joint projects.
The event went beyond its original framework. That’s why we needed something new, but with maintaining the cause and expectations.
This gave birth to The Transylvanian Hungarian High School Sport Olympics (EMKS).
The aim of the initiative is to bring classical individual and group Olympic sports closer to students.
At the Olympics we have eight sports for now: football, basketball, athletics, handball, volleyball, swimming, table tennis, beach volleyball. From these sports we
21 Sport in the Environment of National Minorities – Between Integration, Assimilation and Linguistic Diversity
PROJECT 2
DRIBLI Transylvanian Children’s Football Club
Country: Romania http://dribli.ro
DRIBLI Transylvanian Children’s Football Club was The DRIBLI FC is specially trains kids for the perfor- founded in 2011 and has dealt with more than 600 mance sports. Our goal is to train successful football children since. Dribli considers that mass sports are players for the professional level. important, as they offer the chance for as many chil- dren as possible – both girls and boys – to a con- The DRIBLI FC Transylvania’s first Hungarian football tinuous and organized form of exercise to develop team. This is really important in Cluj where the Hun- a healthy lifestyle. On the other hand, it deals with garian population is only 18% of the all. football coaching, to train successful footballers on an adult level, as well.
Dribli Transylvanian Children’s Football Club is the first Hungarian football association in Transylvania to train the next generations! It deals with Hungarian children in Hungarian, which is especially important in Cluj, where the proportion of Hungarians has fallen below 20%! However, it is important to mention that there are several children in the team, who live in a mixed family. In such cases, unfortunately, it is more typical that the young person is oriented towards the Romanian community, so we are especially happy that we have the opportunity to change this. Not only the coaches speak Hungarian to these youngsters (these children speak both languages on a native level), but also the other children, so friendships are developed, thus we can rightly trust that they will remain part of the Hungarian community for good.
To the DRIBLI Transylvanian Football Club it’s im- portant beyond the mass sports to educate talent- ed young kids too. That is why we created DRIBLI Transylvanian Football Club’s first team the DRIBLI FC in 2012.
22 Best Practice Guide
PROJECT 3
Endurace
Country: Romania http://club-orca.ro
Orca Club was founded in 2008, making Cluj-Napoca • participating in most national and international amateur swimmers’ old dream of having a sportsclub of their own come true. • amateur (middle and long distance) triathlon competitions Since 2015 Orca Club extended its field of activity, becoming an affiliate to the Romanian Triathlon • participating in long distance (road and cross) Federation. running competitions
Main objectives of the club include promoting ama- • participating in road and MT Bycling competitions teur sport, especially swimming and triathlons. The members of Orca Club activate in the fields below:
• swimming courses
• camps for initiating and training triathletes
• organizing sports competitions:
− Spring Sprint
− Crossing Lake Tarnița
− Triatlon Cluj
− Endurace Triathlon
− Endurace Swimming Marathon
− Orca Cup
• group trainings
• participating in most national and international swimming competitions (mainly long distance, open water as well as pool swimming), in both amateur and masters categories
23 Sport in the Environment of National Minorities – Between Integration, Assimilation and Linguistic Diversity
PROJECT 2
Hungarian Cultural Days of Cluj
Country: Romania http://magyarnapok.ro
The largest cultural festival in Transylvania, the Hun- garian Cultural Days in Cluj is not only a series of attractive programs visited by an ever-growing au- dience but also a review of Hungarian cultural life in Transylvania and the Carpathian Basin.
During this one week festival, participants have the oportunity to take part in various sporting event as well.
These last 10 years of the festival we managed to organize various championships like 5 editions of the HCDC Amateur Basketball Championship, 4 editions of Crusaders Flag Football Championship for adults and 3 series for juniours, 5 editions for the HCDC Amateur Badminton Championship, the Old Boys – Alumni Football Cup, the Transylvania Ethno Run and so on.
All above event have their main purpose to promote an active lifestyle, to show people the benefits of movement, and to offer a different way of socializing.
To the DRIBLI Transylvanian Football Club it’s impor- tant beyond the mass sports to educate talented young kids too. That is why we created DRIBLI Transyl- vanian Football Club’s first team the DRIBLI FC in 2012.
The DRIBLI FC is specially trains kids for the perfor- mance sports. Our goal is to train successful football players for the professional level.
The DRIBLI FC Transylvania’s first Hungarian football team. This is really important in Cluj where the Hun- garian population is only 18% of the all.
24 Best Practice Guide
POLISH MINORITY IN LITHUANIA
VILNIAUS SPORTO KLUBAS POLONIA (VSK POLONIA): www.polonia.lt
Sport in the Environment of National Minorities – Between Integration, Assimilation and Linguistic Diversity
THE POLES IN LITHUANIA The Polish minority in Lithuania. The Polish mi- nority in Lithuania is estimated to 250,000 people, or approx. 7% of the total population of Lithuania. It is the largest ethnic minority in the country. The Poles are concentrated in the Vilnius Region. The vast majority of Poles live in Vilnius county (185,912 people, or 24% of the county›s population). Vilnius, the capital of Lithuania, has approx. 100.000 Poles of the city’s population. Especially large Polish commu- nities are found in Vilnius district municipality (52% of the district population) and Šalčininkai district municipality (78%).
People of Polish ethnicity have lived in the territory of In 1918 Poland and Lithuania emerged separate- modern Lithuania for many centuries. The Poles were ly for their independence. Vilnius and the Vilnius originally located along the rivers Wilia and Nieman Region were under the rule of Poland after the as prisoners. The tribes of pagan Lithuania led ex- memorable General Lucjan Zeligowski campaign tensive war actions, plundering neighboring states, in 1920 and the creation of the so-called Central including Poland. The seeds of a common state Lithuania. Kaunas became the temporary capital birth were sown after 1386 through the marriage of of Lithuania. Jagiello and Jadwiga and the baptism of Lithuania. A long-term peaceful expansion into the local lands In September 1939, as a result of a secret collusion of a much more civilized, progressive and wealthy between Ribbentrop and Molotov, areas inhabited Poland has begun. by the Polish and Jewish population became a part of Lithuania. Thus, it happened that Vilnius and the The relationship between the two groups has been Vilnius Region, against the will of their inhabitants, long and complex. The Poles and Lithuanians neigh- found themselves outside of Poland. Finally, the borhood for several nice centuries created a phe- treacherous post-war conference in Yalta in fact nomenon – the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth. gave Lithuania to the sphere of Soviet influence. Both countries migration processes definitely deep- After the Second World War a completely new re- ened and caused a natural Polonization of the Lithua- ality was born. The Poles, who not long ago were nian nobility. In the 18th century, the Commonwealth citizens of the Second Polish Republic, suddenly be- fell into the orbit of Russian influence, and was liq- came citizens of the Soviet Lithuania. About 250,000 uidated as a result of three partitions in 1772, 1793 Poles from Lithuania left for Poland. Among them and 1795. Both nations lost their independence af- were those who later won the Olympic medals being ter the Commonwealth was partitioned. members of the Polish national team.
25 Sport in the Environment of National Minorities – Between Integration, Assimilation and Linguistic Diversity
Władysław Komar Władysław Kozakiewicz Waldemar Nowicki
The most precious ones – gold medals were won significant success was gained by Waldemar Nowicki, by the participation of Władysław Komar and he won the gold medal in the World Championships Władysław Kozakiewicz. and silver medal in the Olympic Games. Moreover,
EDUCATION Waldemar Nowicki won the desired Olympic gold In Lithuania, during the Soviet Times in the 80th, there medal in Seoul Games in 1988, when he was the Cap- were 16,400 secondary schools’ pupils who were in- tain of the Soviet Union handball team. structed in Polish. Their number declined to 11,400 in 1990. In independent Lithuania between 1990 and In the wave of the national revival in 1990 it was de- 2001 the number of Polish mother tongue children cided to set up the Sport Club of Poles “Polonia” in attending schools with Polish as the language of in- Lithuania (SC). Constituent Assembly took place on struction doubled to over 22,300, then gradually de- 18 of March, 1990. The legendary Polish athlete Ire- creased to 18,392 in 2005. In September 2003, there na Szewińska was among the honorary members. were 75 Polish-language general education schools and 52 which provided education in Polish in combi- For the period of activity, the SC “Polonia” has initi- nation of languages (for example Lithuanian-Polish, ated many sport events. The Summer and Winter Lithuanian-Russian-Polish). These numbers fell to 41 Games of the Poles in Lithuania, tourist tours and in 2011, reflecting a general decline in the number of coaches, ski competitions, international shooting schools in Lithuania. competitions and table tennis tournaments, volley- ball league among school-age youth. The Club’s ath- Everyone could go to study abroad after Lithuania re- letes were also successful in the Summer and Winter gained independence in 1990. In 2007, the first small branch of the Polish University of Białystok opened in Vilnius. SPORTS Lithuanian Polish athletes’ participation in sports in the post-war realities was marked by many success- es in different Lithuanian championships. Athletes Oskar Hajdamowicz, Zofia Grucowa, brothers- Ka zimierz and Zbigniew Kiwert, Władysława Androło- jć, Marian Kaczanowski, Algis Mieczkowski, Edmund Szot, Anna Kostecka, siblings Zarembo have achieved high sports results in various disciplines. The most
26 Best Practice Guide
Games of Poles in Poland. Poland co-financed these year debuted, the team won the 5th place out of events. The main goals of the SC are: 10 teams.
• organization of various sport events; In order to involve school children, the Youth Football school was established in 2009, more than 50 young • implementation of national and international footballers attend four different age groups. sports projects;
• development of the healthy lifestyle;
• promotion a favorable public opinion about the Poles in Lithuania;
• submitting proposals of sports policy making and implementation;
• representation in national and international institutions;
• communication and cooperation with national and international partners.
Footballers of the SC “Polonia” are especially marked by the success. In 1990 they were winners in the first World Football Championship of Poles in Stalowa Wola, Poland. They also recorded unprece- dented four times in a row success in the Summer Games of Poles in Poland standing on the highest step of the podium. The team has also competed at various levels of Lithuanian championships for many years, constantly climbing up. They all the time appeared on the first three places playing in the county’s League, and finally, won a promotion to the First League (second level) in 2011. Next
27 Sport in the Environment of National Minorities – Between Integration, Assimilation and Linguistic Diversity
PROJECT 1
Volleyball
Country: Lithuania www.kspolonia.lt
PARTNERS:
In 2003, the SC "Polonia" has initiated a volleyball tournament of girls’ from Polish schools. Four school teams started to take part, but more teams wished to participate after one year. Finally, a tournament was transformed into schoolgirls’ League of volleyball. During the last years, 12 teams from Vilnius and the Vilnius Region participate in it. Girls from schools in- structed in Lithuanian and Russian take part in these competitions, also.
The participants receive commemorative diplomas and balls, the conquerors of the I – III places are awarded with medals and cups. The best team mem- ber is awarded, as well. The school girls finished sec- ondary education receive honorable diplomas and souvenirs for participation in the League games.
Former pupils, who have been participating in the League games, set up a senior team “Polonia” which exists already for the last five years.
28 Best Practice Guide
PROJECT 1
Football
Country: Lithuania www.kspolonia.lt
PARTNERS:
On March 17, 1990, a day before establishment of the SC “Polonia”, a group of Polish footballers, who had been called to the team, came to their friendly meeting with the team Maccabi, Vilnius. The winning result 2:0 was a very meaningful gift for the club’s emerging. These players became a football team, which soon received a proposal to start in the second League of Lithuania.
On July 14 – 22, 1990, the first World Football Cham- pionship of Poles was organized in Stalowa Wola, Poland. The SC “Polonia” was in a group of 6 teams from the USA, Czech Republic, Austria, Germany. The team was trained by the well-known Vilnius “Żalgiris” football player Józef Jurgielewicz. They de- feating consecutively in a group of the Polish teams from the United States: “Cracovia” Wallington – 3:0 and “Polonia” Greenpoint – 4:0. In the final game, the SC “Polonia” forced to capitulate their compatri- ots from “Polonez”, Austria with a score of 2:0, and became champions.
In addition, the SC “Polonia” has captured many suc- cesses in the Summer Games of the Poles organized in Poland every two years. Four times in a row (2001, 2003, 2005 and 2007) the team was on the highest step of the podium. This collection is complemented by three silver medals (1991, 1997 and 1999) and one bronze medal (2009).
29 Sport in the Environment of National Minorities – Between Integration, Assimilation and Linguistic Diversity
PROJECT 3
An International Air Rifle’s and Air Pistol’s shooting competition
Country: Lithuania www.kspolonia.lt
PARTNERS:
An International Air Rifle’s and Air Pistol’s shooting sports stars are invited to reward participants and competition is one of a traditional sport event the give prestige to the event. The winners receive SC “Polonia” organizes. Initially, the competition was awards from the hands of the Olympic champions held at Vilnius Shooting Range. From 2006, it takes Daina Gudzinevičiute, (President of the Lithuanian place in the spectacular hall of the House of Polish Olympic Committee), Lina Kačiušytė and legendary Culture in Vilnius. The competition has already been Lithuanian shooter Vladas Turla. These competitions organized for 23 times, and it is gaining more and organized by the SC “Polonia” are included in the In- more reputation and popularity. Representatives of ternational Shooting Federation events calendar. Lithuania, Belarus, Poland, Estonia, Latvia, Russia, Israel, Ukraine, Germany and Turkey took part in it. The participants say they are under “greenhouse” conditions, because they have a shooting range un- der one roof, as well as accommodation and meals. The conditions of the competitions are adapted for disabled participants, as well.
The peculiarities of the competition:
• participants can participate in three various age groups of both men and women;
• on the last day, an open competition is held in which athletes participate, regardless of age and sex. The youngest participants are able to par- ticipate beside the experienced athletes like the Olympic Games champion Irina Szilowa and mul- tiple-time participant of the Olympic Games Vit- aly Bubnowicz from Belarus, or the World Junior team champions – Lauris Strautmanis and Kris- taps Smilga from Latvia.
During the closing ceremony of the competition, the winners of the first three places receive diplomas and cups, cash bonuses in an open category. Lithuanian
30 Best Practice Guide
PROJECT 4
Sport for Everybody
Country: Lithuania www.kspolonia.lt
PARTNERS:
From the beginning, the SC “Polonia” in its activity makes a stake on mass sport. The Club is the organiz- er of many sport and tourist events: table tennis and checkers tournaments, cross-country skiing.
Depending on the weather in winter, skiing competi- tions are organized, more than 200 participants take part in them. This way the SC takes care of physical culture and healthy lifestyle, it is a possibility to im- prove skiing skills, as well.
Checkers’ tournaments are very popular among Poles from Lithuania. They are led by Lithuanian and the Soviet Union multiple champion Vladislava Androlojt. The game of checkers develops thinking, strengthen memory, develops the ability to accumulate attention, deliver positive results for learning process. Persons engaged in checkers game gain useful life skills – learn how to manage the situation, meet and solve chal- lenges, adapt to new conditions, anticipate further steps, take responsibility for their actions.
The table tennis tournaments take place annually since 2002. Thanks to the constant participation of the representatives from Poland, it has gained an international level. In their turn, young people from Lithuania are invited to similar tournaments to Po- land. Such meetings serve not only to improve sports skills, but also to learn the history, culture and moth- er tongue. The current level of table tennis is very fast and requires a lot of energy and physical preparation of the participants. That’s why it is very important for the Club to select talented youth and work in sections with them.
31 Sport in the Environment of National Minorities – Between Integration, Assimilation and Linguistic Diversity
INTRODUCTION – SPORT IN THE WORLD BETWEEN GLOBALIZATION AND CULTURAL IDENTITY
The Basques are a very interesting group, living in Examples also include regatas (fishermen rowing two political states – France and Spain – on a geo- back to get the fish to market first) graphical territory called Basque Country. These sports are an expression of traditional Basque There are many elements of Basque culture – dance, traits – force, power and strong character and treat- cuisine, songs and special, improvised poetry (Bert- ed as important parts of their identity. solaritza) etc. Very important elements of every fi- esta are also Basque, traditional sports, associated LANGUAGE with their traditional way of living and working, such Basque is the ancestral language of the Basques, as timber sports like Aizkolariak, consisting in cut- whose origin is unknown, as researchers have shown ting wooden trunks as fast as possible using axes. ) that there is no known relationship with the families Segalariak (mowing with a scythe) or barrenadores of European languages. It is thought in all likelihood (men in the mining area of Bizkaia who bored into to be the oldest language of Europe and it has in- stones with steel bars). They competed in strength, fluenced from other languages such as Celtic, Latin, lifting stones (harrijasotzailea) or with animals (oxen, Romance Languages, Gascon, Castilian Spanish, etc. horses or donkeys to haul stone blocks), or for the ability of dogs to care for flocks of sheep. BASQUE SPORTS There are a lot of programmes and good practices The most widespread internationally is Basque pe- carried out by Basque government, but top down lota, the generic denomination for games consist- implementation in not enough. It depends on com- ing of throwing a ball against a ‘fronton’ wall. You munities, cities, villages, trainers and educators´ mo- can play individually (one against one) or in pairs tivational values and resources. (two against two). The main types are: “hand”, “pala”, “jai alai” and “remonte”.
Basque pelota Regata Harrijasotzaile
Aizkolari OX hawling a rock
32 Best Practice Guide
PROJECT 1
First word in Basque Promoting to talk first Word in Basque in daily activities, leisure activities as sports included
Country: Spain, Autonomous Community of the Basque Country, Basque country
PARTNERS:
Athletic Club of Bilbao City hall of Bilbao
Athletic Club joins forces in an initiative in favor of promoting the use of Euskera (Basque). The aim is to promote the use of our language also in sport and in leisure time. Specifically, the action was planned to encourage citizens to always use the first word in Basque.
To this purpose, some 30.000 leaflets were to be distributed at the access gates to San Mamés Sta- dium among the people attending the match, a task that was carried out by 52 people when the fans ac- cessed the pitch. Also, on the Cathedral scoreboards the motto with the images from the flyer that were handed out at the entrance were showed. The Eibar Sportive Society did also collaborate in the initiative and agreed to the use of its shield together with the animations.
“San Mamesen ere… lehenengo berba euskaraz” was a pamphlet in a relaxed tone that aimed to give confi- dence to sportsmen and citizens in general so that they decide to speak in Euskera also in leisure areas.
This was the third action by Bilbao City Council of the initiative “Hirian ere… lehenengo berba euskaraz…” which means “ In the city also ….first word in English” It started in 2017 in Santo Tomás Rural FEst, and the next one was organised on the occasion of the Bil- bao-Bilbao Cycling Tourist March, which celebrated its 30th anniversary in 2018.
33 Sport in the Environment of National Minorities – Between Integration, Assimilation and Linguistic Diversity
PROJECT 2
EUSKARALDIA
Country: Spain and France www.euskaraldia.eus
Euskaraldia was a project in which people in all 7 People were even changing their profile pictures provinces in the Basque Country were encouraged to match! to speak more Euskara, the Basque language, over an 11-day period. Beginning on November 23rd and The goal of Euskaraldia was to change the tendency ending on December 3rd (2018), Euskaraldia joint to prioritize French or Spanish in social and profes- thousands of participants sign up on their website. sional life in the Basque Country, to rather use Eus- People either committed to being an Euskara speak- kara as much as possible. er, Ahobizi, or an Euskara listener, Belarriprest, during those 11 days. This is important because a 2016 study found that only 25% of Euskara speakers in the Basque Country Ahobizi committed to starting all of their conversa- use the language regularly. Nearly 70% of Euskara tions and social interactions in Euskara. They could speakers stated that they use another language al- of course switch to another language if the person ways or almost always. The hope was that in partici- they were speaking to didn’t understand Euskara, but pating in Euskaraldia, people would see that Euskara just starting a conversation in Euskara set the tone. is relevant in more situations than they may have realized. Perhaps people understand Euskara far “Belarriprest” (in englisgh Eaready) during those 11 more than people are aware of. A number of media days were asking Euskara speakers to speak to them outlets in the Basque Country were also supporting in Euskara. This way, they could better practice their Euskaraldia, and members of the Basque diaspora comprehension and support the use of Euskara in were encouraged to get involved. everyday life.
People of every level of ability to speak in Euskara, from very beginners in learning the language to native speakers, were able to participate. The only require- ment was that participants be over 16-years-old and speak and/or understand Euskara. These instances of using Euskara were happening everywhere – at work, school, in public, at home, in interactions with friends and family, everywhere! The point was to en- courage the use of Euskara in all parts of life. Par- ticipants had pins to wear during those 11 days to clearly identify their involvement in Euskaraldia.
34 Best Practice Guide
PROJECT 3
Marka eta erronka euskara eta kirola bat eginik
Country: Basque country
PARTNERS:
Basque language Sport federations City Hall of Vitoria Emun service of Araba of Araba (coordination)
We think it is important to mention three reasons for the Basque language and sport: a. our public is changing and, as if we do not take steps, a gap will be open between the reality of the street and that of the clubs. b. our role is essential to strengthen the use of Basque language. We have to do andto say... We must act responsibly. c. to the extent that we are public or receive public funding, we have obligations.
The difference in the use of Basque in the differ- ent associations clubs, federations, etc. Advances in Basque were people concerned with Basque: in some, a person from the management, in others a teacher, a monitor... or the whole group. Some spoke Basque, some did not, others defended themselves... but there were people who were Basque drivers in those entities. This is called „agency.”
Therefore, this project proposes to carry out tools to carry out a self-diagnosis, and an individualized plan to increase the use of Basque in each asso- ciation, considering the implicit characteristics of the organization.
35 Sport in the Environment of National Minorities – Between Integration, Assimilation and Linguistic Diversity
MAKKABI DEUTSCHLAND E.V.
Sports clubs have a long tradition in Germany and around the world. MAKKABI Germany is the only Jew- ish gymnastics and sports association in Germany, and part of the global Maccabi sports movement.
MAKKABI Germany is a member of the German Olympic Sports Confederation (DOSB), the Europe- an Maccabi Confederation (EMC) and the Maccabi World Union (MWU).
With over 4500 members and 38 local clubs through- out Germany, the individual clubs offer a variety of • Implementation of the International German sports and games. The local clubs are open to ath- Makkabi Championships in various disciplines letes of all denominations and nationalities. (in cooperation with local associations)
One of the main tasks of MAKKABI Germany is to pro- • Imparting traditional Jewish values, identities and mote the Jewish-German national team in more than awareness 26 disciplines. For the national teams, the best ath- letes from local clubs, but also Jewish athletes from • Imparting a feeling of belonging among Jewish other clubs, are nominated, who then take part in athletes worldwide that goes beyond sport national and international sporting events. • Communication between Jews and non-Jews with MAIN TASKS OF THE ASSOCIATION: the help of sport • Further development of the sports business in the adult and youth sector The Maccabiah, the world’s largest Jewish sport- ing event, takes place every four years. More than • Promotion of communication between Makkabi 10,000 Jewish athletes take part in this and compete clubs against each other in various disciplines. A dream comes true for Jewish athletes, because they have • Support for the establishment of a Makkabi local the chance to run into the Maccabiah arena in the association national jersey of MAKKABI Germany and take part in the World Jewish Games. • Nomination and support for the Jewish-German national team in various disciplines Even in the international context, the Maccabiah can keep up. It is the third largest sports event in the • Organization of regular training courses for na- world, involving thousands of athletes from more tional team members and viewing courses than 70 countries. The European Maccabiah, the European Maccabi Games (EMG), also takes place • Preparation for the Maccabiah (Jewish World Sports every four years. These were organized by MAKKABI Games) taking place every four years in Israel Germany in 2015 in Berlin and were a great success. Last time the venue was Budapest in 2019 – it was an • Preparation for the European Maccabi Games, unforgettable event. We are looking forward to the which take place every 4 years next Maccabi Games!
36 Best Practice Guide
PROJECT 1
1st MACCABI GERMANY GAMES May 13–16, 2016 in Duisburg
Country: Germany
PARTNERS:
Landessportbund NRW Zentralrat der Juden in Deutschland Sportland NRW
The Makkabiade 2016 in Duisburg Wedau was a com- wore around their necks on the return trip. Makkabi plete success. It was a reference from and for the Frankfurt won the medal table with around 6 gold Jewish community, but also a major sporting event medals, followed by Makkabi Rostock (5 gold medals) for all Makkabi athletes and sports enthusiasts. and Makkabi Berlin (4 gold medals) in third place.
Around 400 athletes from 20 Makkabi local clubs After the first German Maccabee in 1996, this was – accompanied by numerous guests and spectators 20 years later – the second Maccabee in Duisburg. between Berlin and Düsseldorf, Bremen and Munich, The Presidium of Makkabi Germany would like to but also from the Netherlands, Austria and Switzer- thank everyone involved for this unforgettable event land came together in the largest German sports and is already considering – in 2018 – to launch a school in Duisburg from May 13th to 16th to par- youth Maccabiade. ticipate in the largest Jewish sporting event in 2016.
The competition, accompanied by an extensive cul- tural program, was held in a total of 8 sports (football, basketball, volleyball, tennis, table tennis, fencing, chess and sport shooting) in around 25 disciplines.
But not only sport was in the foreground this week- end: The supporting program started with a breath- taking opening ceremony and the Kabbalat-Shabbat prayer, followed by a festive Shabbat dinner. On Sat- urday there were numerous interesting workshops in which both athletes and spectators could partic- ipate, followed by a harmonious Hawdalah in the evening on the main square. Other highlights were the poker tournament and the atmospheric Yom Haazmaut closing party at night on Sunday, until finally the medals were awarded at the award cere- mony on Monday morning.
Due to the team sports of soccer, basketball and volleyball, a total of around 150 athletes were able to win a medal on the weekend, which they proudly
37 Sport in the Environment of National Minorities – Between Integration, Assimilation and Linguistic Diversity
PROJECT 2
Participation in the biggest Jewish Sport event in Israel. 2017
Country: Israel
PARTNERS:
Zentralrat der Juden in Deutschland Bundesministerium des Innern Maccabi World Union
The 20th Maccabiah / Maccabiah 2017 was the big- gest, and probably the most successful of all Mac- cabiot – a saga which started in 1932. During July 4 –18 2017, the largest international Jewish-Zionist event hosted about 10,000 athletes and 22,000 ad- ditional fans from more than 80 countries in a festival of Sports, Jewish continuity and connection to the Center of the Jewish People, the State of Israel.
All Jewish Communities are engaged in this extraordi- nary goal, under the general organization of Maccabi World Union – supported by the State of Israel and all Israel National Institutions. Besides meeting each other in competitive matches in the most qualified stadiums, Israelis and Jews from every corner of the world will join in countless programs designed to build strong relationships and significant shared experiences.
Maccabiah 2017 will celebrate the 50 years of Jerusa- lem since its reunification, in its Opening Ceremony at Jerusalem Teddy Stadium and many other events.
Maccabiah 2017: 80 countries – one heart. Peoplehood and Zionism. Present and Future for the Jewish People.
The German delegation traveled to Israel with over 230 athletes – a new record. Around a third of the participants were young people between the ages of 14 and 18. The German delegation also set a new re- cord in medal awards and won 45 medals in 20 sports.
38 Best Practice Guide
PROJECT 1
The 1st Maccabi Junior Games in Germany 2018
Country: Germany
PARTNERS:
Zentralrat der Juden in Deutschland Bundesministerium des Innern Maccabi München
In summer 2018, MAKKABI Germany organized its first junior group games: The MAKKABI Germany Jun- ior Games 2018 in Munich. The patronage was taken over by Federal Interior Minister Horst Seehofer and the President of the Central Council of Jews in Ger- many, Josef Schuster.
The MAKKABI Germany Junior Games took place from 30th May to 3rd June 2018 in Munich. Everyone who is between the ages of 12 and 18, Jewish or a mem- ber of a Makkabi local association was allowed to participate. Active Makkabi athletes and teams from the local clubs, athletes in whose cities there is no Makkabi club and athletes with disabilities took part.
The Makkabi Junior Games were a successful open event in which – in addition to sport – getting to know each other played a central role. Especially against the background of the increasing presence of an- ti-Semitism among school-age children and adoles- cents, MAKKABI Germany wanted to use this event to send a positive signal of friendly cooperation in Ger- many. Young Jewish and non-Jewish athletes com- peted against and with each other in eight sports.
Although we expected only 150 participants in the beginning – in the end there are over 350 young peo- ple in the junior games in the following years
Sports participated: fencing / basketball / table tennis /tennis/chess/soccer/volleyball/esports (FIFA)
The next junior games are planned for 2020, so that one can now assume a tradition every 2 years.
39 Sport in the Environment of National Minorities – Between Integration, Assimilation and Linguistic Diversity
BUND DEUTSCHER NORDSCHLESWIGER
The German-Danish border The Carinthian Slovenes COMPETING region (the region Sønder- with their motto „The EURO- TO HOST jylland-Schleswig) repre- PEADA 2020 in Carinthia/ sented by the four regional Koroška – TOGETHER THE 4TH minority groups with their UNIQUE/SKUPNO ENKRATNI motto „The EUROPEADA – together we celebrate the EUROPEADA: 2020 between the North- uniqueness of our diversity and Baltic Sea – the cross- in Europe“ border football festival“
FÜR DIE AUSRICHTUNG DER Die deutsch-dänische Grenzregion (Region Die Kärntner Slowenen unter dem Motto Sønderjylland-Schleswig) mit allen vier dort „Die EUROPEADA 2020 in Kärnten/Koroška – 4. EUROPEADA TRETEN AN: ansässigen Minderheiten unter dem Motto „Die TOGETHER UNIQUE / SKUPNO ENKRATNI – feiern EUROPEADA 2020 zwischen Nord- und Ostsee – wir gemeinsam die Einzigartigkeit unserer das grenzüberschreitende Fußballfest“ Vielfalt in Europa“.
FØLGENDE REGIONER Den dansk-tyske grænseregion (regionen Det slovenske mindretal i Kärnten, med deres Sønderjylland-Schleswig) repræsenteret af de fire motto ”EUROPEADA 2020 i Kärnten / Koroška – KONKURRERER OM VÆRTSKAB regionale minoritetsgrupper, med deres motto FORSKELLIGE SAMMEN / SKUPNO ENKRATNI – ”EUROPEADA 2020 mellem Nord- og Østersøen – sammen fejrer vi vores unikke mangfoldighed i FOR DEN 4. EUROPEADA: den grænseoverskridende fodbold festival” Europa”
ZA IZVEDBO 4. EUROPEADE SE Nemško-danska obmejna regija (regija Koroški Slovenci pod geslom “EUROPEADA 2020 Sønderjylland-Schleswig) z vsemi štirimi na Koroškem – TOGETHER UNIQUE / SKUPNO POTEGUJETA: tam naseljenimi manjšinami pod geslom ENKRATNI – skupno praznujmo enkratnost naše “EUROPEADA 2020 med Severnim in Baltiškim raznolikosti v Evropi” morjem – čezmejni nogometni praznik”
FORT ÜTRUCHTEN FOON E 4RD Et dånsch-tjüsch gränslönj (Regjoon Söödjütlönj- E Kärtner Sloweene mat teema „E Europeada Slaswik) ma åål fjouer manerhäide, wat deer 2020 önj Kärnten / Koroska – Together Unique / EUROPEADA TREESE ÖNJ: laawe, mat teema „E Europeada 2020 twasche Skupno Enkratni fiire we e besunerhäid foon üüs Weest- än Ååstsiie, et gränsouertreesen fötjbålfäst. maningfoolt.
40 Federal Union of European Nationalities Flensburg / Flensborg · Berlin · Brussel / Bruxelles Best Practice Guide
BUND DEUTSCHER NORDSCHLESWIGER INVITATION / EINLADUNG
Youth Football Tournament of the autochthonous and national minorities Ernst Willimowski Tournament
The German-Danish border The Carinthian Slovenes COMPETING region (the region Sønder- with their motto „The EURO- TO HOST jylland-Schleswig) repre- PEADA 2020 in Carinthia/ sented by the four regional Koroška – TOGETHER THE 4TH minority groups with their UNIQUE/SKUPNO ENKRATNI motto „The EUROPEADA – together we celebrate the EUROPEADA: 2020 between the North- uniqueness of our diversity and Baltic Sea – the cross- in Europe“ border football festival“
FÜR DIE AUSRICHTUNG DER Die deutsch-dänische Grenzregion (Region Die Kärntner Slowenen unter dem Motto Sønderjylland-Schleswig) mit allen vier dort „Die EUROPEADA 2020 in Kärnten/Koroška – 4. EUROPEADA TRETEN AN: ansässigen Minderheiten unter dem Motto „Die TOGETHER UNIQUE / SKUPNO ENKRATNI – feiern EUROPEADA 2020 zwischen Nord- und Ostsee – wir gemeinsam die Einzigartigkeit unserer das grenzüberschreitende Fußballfest“ Vielfalt in Europa“.
FØLGENDE REGIONER Den dansk-tyske grænseregion (regionen Det slovenske mindretal i Kärnten, med deres Sønderjylland-Schleswig) repræsenteret af de fire motto ”EUROPEADA 2020 i Kärnten / Koroška – KONKURRERER OM VÆRTSKAB regionale minoritetsgrupper, med deres motto FORSKELLIGE SAMMEN / SKUPNO ENKRATNI – ”EUROPEADA 2020 mellem Nord- og Østersøen – sammen fejrer vi vores unikke mangfoldighed i FOR DEN 4. EUROPEADA: den grænseoverskridende fodbold festival” Europa”
ZA IZVEDBO 4. EUROPEADE SE Nemško-danska obmejna regija (regija Koroški Slovenci pod geslom “EUROPEADA 2020 Sønderjylland-Schleswig) z vsemi štirimi na Koroškem – TOGETHER UNIQUE / SKUPNO POTEGUJETA: tam naseljenimi manjšinami pod geslom ENKRATNI – skupno praznujmo enkratnost naše “EUROPEADA 2020 med Severnim in Baltiškim raznolikosti v Evropi” morjem – čezmejni nogometni praznik”
FORT ÜTRUCHTEN FOON E 4RD Et dånsch-tjüsch gränslönj (Regjoon Söödjütlönj- E Kärtner Sloweene mat teema „E Europeada Slaswik) ma åål fjouer manerhäide, wat deer 2020 önj Kärnten / Koroska – Together Unique / EUROPEADA TREESE ÖNJ: laawe, mat teema „E Europeada 2020 twasche Skupno Enkratni fiire we e besunerhäid foon üüs Weest- än Ååstsiie, et gränsouertreesen fötjbålfäst. maningfoolt.
Federal Union of European Nationalities www.willimowski.pl 41 Flensburg / Flensborg · Berlin · Brussel / Bruxelles Sport in the Environment of National Minorities – Between Integration, Assimilation and Linguistic Diversity
LIVING DIVERSITY SHAPING EUROPE
Flensburg / Flensborg · Berlin · Brussel / Bruxelles www.fuen.org
42 Best Practice Guide
Federal Union of European Nationalities DID YOU KNOW, THAT...... approximately every seventh citizen in Europe belongs to an autochthonous, national minority and/or is speaking a regional or minority language?
... there are more than 400 autochthonous, national minorities in Europe comprising more than 100 million people? (these are e.g. Ladins, Aromanians, North Frisians, Bretons, Hungarians in Romania and many, many other minorities)
… the European Citizens’ Initiative Minority SafePack was registered by the European Commission on April 3rd, 2017 “on the protection of persons belonging to national minorities and minorities as well as on strength- ening the cultural and linguistic diversity of the Union”?
... there are more than 20 European states with a German minority?
... many regional and minority languages are seriously endangered?
... in France, more than seven regional languages are being spoken?
... there are 19 minorities in Romania?
... the Roma are the largest minority of Europe?
... for the fourth time, FUEN will be the organiser of a European minority football championship, in which both men’s and women’s teams are participating?
FUEN is representing the minorities of Europe and considers itself as their advocate. FUEN is a community based on solidarity, a family and a network at the same time.
Flensburg / Flensborg Bundeshaus Berlin Hanse-Office Brussel / Bruxelles
BRIEF PROFILE The Federal Union of European Nationalities (FUEN) is the largest umbrella organisation of the autochthonous, national minorities in Europe, with more than 90 member organisations in 32 European countries.
FUEN represents the interests of these European minorities on the regional, national and in particular on the European level.
FUEN is committed to protect and promote the identity, language, culture, rights and own character of the European minorities. FUEN is the voice of the minorities at the international organisations, notably at the European Union, the Council of Europe and also at the United Nations and the OSCE. FUEN was founded in Paris in 1949, and today it has three offices: in Flensburg, Berlin and Brussels.
Federal Union of European Nationalities Flensburg / Flensborg · Berlin · Brussel / Bruxelles Föderalistische Union Europäischer Nationalitäten +49 461 12855 · [email protected] · www.fuen.org ФEДЕРАЛИСТСКИЙ СОЮЗ ЕВРОПЕЙСКИХ НАЦИОНАЛЬНЫХ МЕНЬШИНСТВ Union Fédéraliste des Communautés Ethniques Européennes
43