Black History Month recognises the contributions that black people have made to this country over the generations. It was first launched in London in the 1980s, with the aim for the local community to challenge racism and educate themselves and others about the British history that was not taught in schools.
The first black player to play for Hibernian FC, Harper overcame challenges to live his dream and inspire so many others across Scotland to do the same.
He has regularly and consistently spoken out against the challenges and hurdles faced by black, Asian and minority ethnic players in football and can sadly recall many harrowing experiences of his own.
Whilst there were many highs during his time with us to look back on, there was also a few low points as racism continually impacted him throughout his time in Scotland.
Now 47, Kevin admits he was unaware of the significance of his debut. “I was one of a kind in more ways than one!” joked Kevin before making a serious point.
“At the time I didn’t know I was the Club’s first black player. I’m not sure anyone even thought to check it so there was no big fanfare around it.
“Knowing now that I was the first black player to come through a club’s youth ranks and break into the First Team anywhere in Scottish football – it was obviously a big thing.
“At times, it was difficult though because I had to listen to the abuse being hurled at me and I found it hard to deal with.
“I received racial abuse from seasoned pros and from the terraces all over Scotland. It was disappointing and it is even more so that we are still seeing it in our game.
“Black and ethnic minority players are still getting it. It’s not just a football problem, it is a societal problem and until we attack it head on, it is always going to be there.”
Having overcome so much in his life to enjoy a richly successful football career, Kevin is rightly viewed as an inspiration to many.
That’s why he stands up and uses his profile to raise awareness of the racial issues that continue to blight our game.
“I certainly didn’t consider myself an inspiration when I was breaking into the team at 17 but now looking back, I can see it.
“That is why I speak so much about racism in football and equality because I feel that I have a duty as an ex-professional footballer to try and make change happen.
“Whether I have a big enough platform to do that, I don’t know. When I speak out, it is not about Kevin Harper, it is about showing up the issue that is still there to this day - over 25 years after I broke onto the scene.
“I have been fighting and talking about racism for around 20 years and although it has improved a little bit, there is still a long way to go before it is where it should be.”
Black History Month has been running throughout the whole of October, and you can find out more about it by clicking here.
