Paul Elliott's offensive text to former player "was not racist" claims anti-racism campaigner Piara Powar Racism and other forms of discrimination are not simply about words. It may be difficult for some to accept the difference between those words used with discriminatory intent and those that are not. Elliott expressed his "regret" on Sunday at his language as he quit his roles on the FA's judicial panel and as a nominated member of Uefa committees. He also resigned his position as a trustee of football's anti-racism body, Kick It Out. The 48-year-old had been tipped to become its next chairman and was seen as a rising star at the FA and Uefa. He received the CBE earlier this month for services to equality and diversity in football. It is thought to be unlikely, but not impossible, that the Honours Foreiture Committee could look at whether his conduct warranted their attention. Elliott's resignation is arguably another blow to Kick It Out following the boycott of its October week of action by some black players frustrated with its response to racism. Powar said: "Of course, there will be detractors of Kick It Out, who say, "Here, you have another controversy surrounding the organisation." But I think there will be many others who say that the organisation did the right thing, one of its key trustees did the right thing, and the message that has gone out there is categorical. This also stands in contrast to the actions of those clubs or, indeed, the FA itself, who have been slow to act on individuals. Powar, who has known Elliott well for many years, insisted he would "emerge stronger" from this episode. I know Paul very well and I know the skills that he has, the understanding of the game that he has and its politics, and I have no doubt that Paul will be back and fighting. In the end, what Paul does is seek to represent those who are disenfranchised in society and perhaps in football as well. I think he'll continue to seek to represent those groups and, in time, his skills will bring him to the fore again.