Marcus Rashford is not only a star on the pitch, but also a champion of social causes off it. The Manchester United and England forward has been leading the campaign to end child food poverty in the UK, and has also been vocal about the need to tackle climate change and promote sustainability. His efforts have earned him widespread praise and recognition, as well as inspiring other sports stars to follow his example and use their platform to make a difference.
Rashford’s campaign to feed hungry children
Rashford’s campaign to feed hungry children started in March 2020, when he saw the impact of school closures on disadvantaged families. He used his social media to raise awareness and funds for food charities, and successfully lobbied the government to extend free school meals during the lockdowns and holidays. He also partnered with major supermarkets and food brands to create a task force to end child food insecurity in the UK.
Rashford’s campaign has helped provide the equivalent of three million meals to vulnerable children, and has also raised the profile of the issue in the public and political spheres. He has received an MBE for his services, as well as the BBC Sports Personality of the Year award and the Football Writers’ Association Tribute award. He has also been hailed as a role model and a hero by many, including his fellow footballers and fans.
Rashford’s passion for the environment
Rashford’s passion for the environment is also evident in his actions and words. He has been supporting the Sky Sports’ Summer of Sustainability, which aims to highlight the impact of climate change on sporting events and encourage the audience to take positive steps to reduce their carbon footprint. He has also been promoting a sustainable shoe brand created by his friend, which uses recycled materials and plants a tree for every pair sold. His goal celebration, which forms a lightning bolt with his hands, is a reference to the brand’s logo and a symbol of his commitment to the cause.
Rashford has also been vocal about the need to protect the environment for the sake of future generations. He has said that he wants to leave a better world for his nephews and nieces, and that he is inspired by the young activists who are leading the climate movement. He has also urged his fans and followers to join him in taking action and making a change.
Rashford’s influence on other sports stars
Rashford’s influence on other sports stars is undeniable. He has shown that athletes can use their fame and influence to raise awareness and funds for social causes, and to challenge the status quo and demand change. He has also shown that athletes can be authentic and courageous in speaking out about the issues that matter to them, and that they can inspire others to do the same.
One of the sports stars who has been inspired by Rashford is Leeds striker Patrick Bamford, who has been supporting the Summer of Sustainability and the fight against climate change. Bamford has said that Rashford has set the ball rolling for a lot of athletes, and that he has given him the impetus to do more and show that he can make a change as well. Bamford has also praised Rashford’s activism on child food poverty, and has donated to his campaign.
Other sports stars who have expressed their admiration and support for Rashford include Liverpool captain Jordan Henderson, Manchester City midfielder Kevin De Bruyne, and England cricket captain Joe Root. They have all applauded Rashford’s efforts and achievements, and have also joined him in raising awareness and funds for various causes. Rashford has also received messages of solidarity from NBA stars LeBron James and Stephen Curry, who have been vocal about racial injustice and social issues in the US.
Rashford’s example has also encouraged more sports stars to speak up and take action on the issues that they care about, such as racism, mental health, gender equality, and human rights. Some of the examples include Formula One champion Lewis Hamilton, tennis star Naomi Osaka, rugby player Maro Itoje, and cricketer Moeen Ali. They have all used their platform to advocate for change and to support various campaigns and organisations.
Marcus Rashford is a remarkable young man who has proven himself to be a leader and a champion of social causes. He has used his platform to make a positive impact on the lives of millions of people, and to inspire other sports stars to join him in the fight for a better world. He has shown that sports can be a powerful force for good, and that athletes can be agents of change.
