No to memorials to sports figures – because they are men

Published 15 August 2024 at 15.08

Domestic. The municipal board in Malmö on Wednesday rejected the Sweden Democrats' motions to honor soccer player Bosse Larsson (1944-2023) and discus thrower Ricky Bruch (1946-2011) with a memorial each. In their justification, the politicians state, among other things, that female athletes have not been celebrated in a similar way.

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– It gets strange, here we are talking about the memory of two beloved people Malmö profiles. It has nothing to do with gender, says opposition councilor Magnus Olsson (SD) in a press release.

The motions have been referred to a number of relevant boards, including the leisure board and the culture board – but none of the boards approved the motions. And the municipal board follows the same line.

The Sweden Democrats' proposal was that Ricky Bruch be honored by having his throw and one of his old discus, which today is stored in IFK Klagshamn's clubhouse, be exhibited for public viewing with a sign with pictures and information about his career.

For Bosse Larsson, the party suggested a statue or a pair of cast football boots.

The refusal is justified – in addition to the “equality perspective” – ​​also by the fact that the two sports profiles already have each been honored with a cast plaque on the Sports Walk of Fame at the Eleda stadium, and for Bosse Larsson there is also a memorial stone for him on the Limhamnsfältet.

– We Sweden Democrats think that those responsible in the city of Malmö can be a little more generous , simply get better, by honoring beloved sports figures such as Ricky Bruch and Bosse Larsson. For me, they will always symbolize the old Malmö spirit that I love – no contrivance, but a self-evident outward confidence that feels downright genuine, says Magnus Olsson (SD).

SD's motions on memorials to Ricky Bruch and Bosse Larsson will go up to the municipal council on August 29. But it is only a matter of form – the proposals have already been voted down.