Jim Read's moving biography, “Justin Fashanu: Not Forgotten,” revisits Justin Fashanu's extraordinary yet challenging life as football's first openly gay professional player. Originally published in 2012, this latest edition delves deeper, shining a light on Justin's struggles with homophobia and discrimination in British football during those harsh decades in The 1980s and '90s.
Finding joy beyond football
Off-field, Justin found moments that brought him pure joy. He often escaped his football troubles on dance floors in gay bars, where he was free, if only briefly, from his burdens. Friends remember him lighting up with a love that matched his passion, swaying along with tunes by The Commodores and jamming out with Clive and Cole's hit, “A Deeper Love.”
A rollercoaster career
With a personality as big as it was colorful, Justin was unstoppable. His unforgettable goal against Liverpool while playing with Norwich City in January 1980? It's still a legendary moment in football history. At just 18, he was already a top scorer in England, captivating fans with his undeniable talent. But his career wasn't without hurdles. Moving on from Norwich, he joined Nottingham Forest, managed by Brian Clough, who was notoriously homophobic. This period became a stormy chapter in Justin's career, with his personal and professional life turned topsy-turvy by relentless media glare, a cycle that ended tragically in East London.
Justin's legacy and continued advocacy
On February 19th, Justin would have blown out 64 candles. His spirit lives on through initiatives like International Day Against LGBTQ+phobia in Sport, a yearly reminder that discrimination has no place in sports. Fans show their support by wearing black and pink, campaign colors chosen by allies such as FC Barcelona, who are passionate about championing equality in sports. Despite facing ongoing challenges, like controversies surrounding players such as Mapi Leon from Barcelona's women's team, voices advocating equality remain steadfast. Social media often amplifies stories highlighting deep-seated tribalism and transphobia, emphasizing that there's still a long road ahead.
The enduring mark: celebrating Justin's humanity
Read's revised biography captures Justin's essence perfectly. The book overflows with stories that bring you closer, sharing glimpses that show him as both a mythical and misunderstood figure. Justin's warmth and kindness left an indelible mark on everyone he met—whether he was driving fans around in his stylish car or joining impromptu football games in neighborhood parks. Even after bravely coming out in 1990, his career continued with clubs like Torquay United and Airdrie United, where fans cheered with a chant that celebrated his courage: 'He's Black, he's gay, he plays at Air-dar-ay, Fashanu, Fashanu.'
Continuing battles against discrimination
Read's book doesn't just reflect on Justin's life; it delivers his story freshly, highlighting his merits and honors. Justin's induction in places like National Football Museum's Hall and recognition on Football Black List and beyond speak volumes. Documentaries, art pieces, and fan groups like Norwich's Proud Canaries ensure his story isn't forgotten. As Read poignantly puts it, "Justin Fashanu's significance as a courageous pioneer shines brighter now than ever." Yet, even with such understanding, professional football still flounders at addressing issues around sexuality and homophobia, occasionally falling short in appreciating Justin's lasting significance.
Justin Fashanu boldly went against societal norms, and even now, those barriers are being challenged. Every February 19th, his legacy serves as a reminder that fighting against LGBTQ+phobia in sports remains vital. “Justin Fashanu: Not Forgotten” urges us not only on remembering his legacy but also recognizing his battles and triumphs. Though hurdles persist in sports, resting on our laurels isn't an answer. Here we are, raising our glasses in honor, continuing Justin's fight, and demanding change and equality—because Justin Fashanu deserves no less.
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