Uganda’s ‘Ghetto Kids’ rally behind Vinicius Junior with viral dance against racism

A heartfelt dance by children from Uganda has captured global attention, sparking a powerful wave of solidarity with Brazilian forward Vinicius Junior following recent racism allegations in European football.

The children, members of the Ugandan NGO Ghetto Kids, shared a short video on social media in which they recreated Vinicius Junior’s trademark goal celebration.

The performance was intended as a show of support for the Real Madrid star after the incidents that reportedly occurred at Lisbon’s Stadium of Light.

Despite running for only a few minutes, the video quickly went viral, amassing more than 12 million views in a remarkably short time. It soon became a widely shared symbol in the fight against racism in football stadiums, resonating with fans far beyond Africa.

 

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A post shared by Triplets Ghetto Kids 🇺🇬 (@ghettokids_tfug)

Vinicius Junior responded swiftly to the gesture, reposting the video across his official social media platforms.

He expressed gratitude to the children for choosing art and joy as their response to hatred, describing racism as “cowardice,” echoing remarks he had made in earlier statements.

The timing of the dance added to its emotional weight, coming as Vinicius faces intense scrutiny following his accusation that Gianluca Prestiani of Benfica racially abused him. The allegation prompted UEFA to launch an official investigation.

Many observers have described the message of support from Uganda’s underprivileged communities as a powerful reflection of Vinicius Junior’s global influence.

Beyond his performances on the pitch, the Brazilian is increasingly viewed as a symbol and role model in the ongoing fight against discrimination in football.