Liverpool’s Hillsborough ’97’ Pin Badge Controversy: A Misstep in Commemoration

Liverpool Football Club recently found itself in the midst of a controversy after distributing a commemorative pin badge that featured the number ’97’ alongside the eternal flames—an emblem designed to honour the 97 victims of the Hillsborough disaster. The badges were included as part of a gift set given to fans attending the opening of the new Founders Lounge in the redeveloped Anfield Road stand during Liverpool’s match against Brentford.

The Backlash from Families

The backlash was swift. According to The Athletic, complaints emerged from the families of those who lost their lives in the tragic events of 1989. Charlotte Hennessy, whose father Jimmy was among the victims, expressed her dismay on social media, asking, “Who approved this? Why are things like this made and families never asked?” This sentiment was echoed by Sheila Coleman, a prominent member of the Hillsborough Justice Campaign, who criticized the decision, stating, “I hate this. Who did they consult with over these? Brand Hillsborough again.”

Liverpool responded by issuing an apology and promptly withdrawing the badges from circulation. The club acknowledged that the badges were intended as a tribute but admitted that they had failed to consult with the families of the victims before their release. The decision to distribute the badges, even if well-intentioned, was seen as a significant oversight.

A Divided Response

The reaction to the badges has been mixed. Peter Scarfe, chairman of the Hillsborough Survivors Support Alliance, conveyed that while some members viewed the badge as a respectful tribute to the 97, others found it disrespectful. “Corporate guests who don’t have an understanding of the badge are more likely to research its meaning as it’s a replica of what’s on the back of the collar of the team’s shirts,” Scarfe told The Athletic. However, he emphasized that the families should have been consulted first, noting that “a lot more people would have warmed to them if permission was sought first.”

The controversy underscores the sensitivity that still surrounds the Hillsborough disaster, even over three decades later. The event remains a deeply painful memory for the families affected, and any use of its symbols or references requires careful consideration and, crucially, the involvement of those most impacted.

Importance of Consultation and Sensitivity

This incident serves as a reminder of the importance of consultation and sensitivity when dealing with such a tragic part of the club’s history. Liverpool FC, known for its close relationship with its supporters and the families of the Hillsborough victims, has always been committed to honouring their memory. However, this situation highlights how even well-meaning actions can have unintended consequences when the voices of those directly affected are not included in the decision-making process.

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

We understand that the Hillsborough disaster is more than just a chapter in the club’s history; it’s a wound that still hurts deeply. The ‘97’ badge was undoubtedly meant to pay tribute to those lost, but the lack of consultation with the families reflects a misstep in the club’s approach.

Liverpool has always prided itself on being a club that listens to its community, particularly the families of the Hillsborough victims. The decision to distribute these badges without their input feels like a departure from that tradition. It’s a stark reminder that when it comes to sensitive matters like this, the first and most important step should always be to engage with those who were most directly affected.

The club’s quick response in apologizing and withdrawing the badges is commendable, but the incident underscores the ongoing need for careful consideration in all matters related to Hillsborough. The memory of the 97 is sacred, and it’s crucial that every effort to honour them is done with the utmost respect and sensitivity, ensuring that the families’ wishes are at the forefront of any such initiatives.

In the future, Liverpool must ensure that they continue to act with the care and consideration that the Hillsborough tragedy demands. This incident, while unfortunate, can serve as a lesson in the importance of always consulting with those most intimately connected to such a painful history.