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Over 220 pupils from three local primary schools, Pallister Park, Park End and Thorntree, took part across two days of activities, stadium tours, workshops and engagement with a special panel of guests in the Hardwick Lounge at the Riverside.
Junior Masandi, from Taste of Africa, was joined by Boro Women players Ella Baker and Niyah Dunbar and Boro’s Academy’s Evan Simmons and George McCormick who has had quite a bit of experience in and around the first team this season.
Each one in turn answered questions from excited pupils, interested to know if any of them had been witness to any form of racism.
It was explained that racism isn’t solely about skin colour, it’s about many other factors including attacks on faith and ethnicity and lack of respect for beliefs that maybe don’t align with your own.
Sadly, all had been witnessed to racism on and off the pitch. “Sometimes it’s the way people say things as much as what they say,” explained George.
“What might be a bit of fun to some, might be hurtful to others, so please think about what you’re saying and how you say it.”
Sentiment backed up by Niyah, so says: “I have no problem with people asking about my ethnicity, or the colour of my skin, I’m proud of my heritage, As long as they’re asking for the right reasons.”
The group on the first day were paid a surprise visit by Matty Campbell, famous from the TV show Gladiators and an influencer on YouTube.
“I’ve loved what I’ve see today, such an enthusiastic group. There was nothing like this when I was growing up. I’d just encourage them all to respect each other, respect everyone.”
Thanks to the Boro Women team and the Boro’s Academy for allowing Ella, Niyah, Evan and George the time to come along.
Thanks to Matty for popping in. He was at the ground for a totally unrelated reason, but was happy to share his time and, along with the other panellists, sign a host of autographs.