Blowing the whistle on racial discrimination terminated my career - Burrell

Warning: This article includes descriptions of discriminatory language and conduct

Ex-England centre Luther Burrell states that speaking out to reveal racial discrimination in professional rugby led his professional journey to an early conclusion.

In a June 2022, Burrell characterized racism as being "widespread" in the sport, displaying Whatsapp messages and remembering training ground "jokes" he had been subject to while playing for Newcastle.

Then 34 and without a team, Burrell's only elite playing since has been a handful of games with guest team the Barbarians.

"I've have absolutely had to end my career because of what occurred," he explained to media outlets.

"I wanted to continue playing, of course I did. I pursued that, and it collapsed when news emerged that there were inquiries underway.

"This situation was difficult - I had to simply come to terms with the fate and accept that this entire situation is a lot more important than me."

A rugby governing body investigation in April 2023 found Burrell's allegations were true "on the balance of probability", but stated it could not gather sufficient proof to categorically say they occurred at Newcastle.

Burrell revealed to media he also encountered prejudice within the England team environment, during a Test career that saw him win 15 appearances after his first game in February 2014.

"I've had several traumatic experiences within England camp," he said.

"Certain instances of discrimination and other just outdated thinking that's really inappropriate."

Racism had become normalised in team environments, in Burrell's view.

"This is something that has been disguised as banter and that's been the problem that I've personally experienced and witnessed," said Burrell, who is of Jamaican descent.

"During a period of time you just learn to believe that it's the norm and that is fine and that it's not harmful, but that's incorrect."

Burrell says he was finally motivated to speak out after a fellow player at Newcastle referred to him as a "slave" and told him to put sunscreen on his arms and legs "where chains would be placed."

The rugby authority said Burrell's disclosures had led to "increased scrutiny at the culture within the professional level and to the introduction of an strategy for the professional game."

"The organization has given significant focus on inclusion and inclusion in rugby union and a substantial amount of work undertaken both before and after Luther Burrell spoke publicly and shared his experiences of racism and classism," it continued.

"We are ongoing work with teams and partners in the elite level to work for a environment of inclusivity but acknowledge this requires patience and is an continuous effort."

All Prem and PWR club now has face-to-face training on building welcoming environments, with its effectiveness tracked via specific documentation and surveys.

All England athletes, including youth squads, are trained in being "active bystanders" to intervene and protect others from damaging conduct.

"You be so proud of what you have accomplished," Burrell's mother Joyce told him as part of the film about his experiences.

"We know it has had this impact on you and finished your playing days, but in our view, you have achieved so well. We are so proud of you and to have you as a family member."

Burrell's dad Geoff passed away soon after the production of the documentary, and his sibling died earlier this year.

Burrell, who grew up on a council estate in his hometown, continues his work to make the game more open.

His charitable organization aims to reach children in disadvantaged communities and help them thrive both on the field with free sports training, guidance and dietary education.

"My intentions are pure, I want to see the evolution of the sport and if nobody else is willing to tell their experience then I'll continue to advocate for that cause because I'm not just doing this for myself," he said.

"Everyone involved have an responsibility to make the sport as great as it can be and the longer I speak about it hopefully the more confident others will feel about sharing their own experiences as well.

"I grab the bull by the horns and continue carrying this flag and keep supporting this weight and accomplish what I can to develop opportunities and make the game more appealing and more welcoming.

"There are a lot of disadvantaged children and a lot of economic hardship and I honestly believe that the sport has the ability to transform their futures, just as it transformed things for me."