Southend United Show Racism the Red Card
On Monday 2nd October, Show Racism The Red Card partnered with Southend United Community and Educational trust for a day at Roots Hall, delivering our anti-racism programme for 90 Year 6 pupils from the local St. Mary’s Primary School.
The workshops delivered by the Southern Team delved deep into the intricate labyrinth of unconscious bias, shedding light on the unseen glasses tinting our perception of the world around us. Through engaging activities and insightful discussions, the pupils were introduced to the art of challenging stereotypes effectively and sensitively. Furthermore, the workshop included breaking down the definition of racism, learning and understanding how to challenge racism in a manner safe yet assertive.
After lunch the group engaged in our ‘Gamechanger’ activity, the pupils were encouraged to reflect and articulate on how they would stand up against racism, embodying the role of upstanders rather than bystanders in situations permeated with racial prejudice. This activity fostered a sense of responsibility and empowerment amongst the pupils, arming them with the confidence to take on challenges revolving around racism proactively.
The pupils were treated to a stadium tour from the staff of SUCET, where they were fortunate to witness the impromptu spectacle of a first-team training session in action on the pitch of Roots Hall. After which we had the arrival of first-team players from both the men’s and women’s squads of Southend United. Colin Adeng-Ndi and Louis Lomas from the men’s team, alongside Katie Burbridge from the women’s team.
The trio shared snippets of their personal journeys in professional football, providing the pupils with a mosaic of experiences, challenges, and triumphs. The players were outstanding in offering the room advice and guidance on how to navigate and challenge racial prejudice safely and effectively. There was even enough time for discussions about the players’ favourite games and goals!
Operations Manager for Southend United Community and Education Trust, Dan King said, “It is great to be linking up again with Show Racism The Red Card doing more incredible work with pupils from St Marys. It was brilliant hearing what the children learnt in the morning and applying it to be a gamechanger! Thank you very much for a great event!”
SRtRC Educator, Jack Cunningham led the workshops and said, “To see the growth of the students having delivered to them last year at Roots Hall was amazing to see! Its great that they have continued the conversation back in the classroom as demonstrated by their answers, conversation and unity amongst their peers! Well done to all for engaging and making a brilliant session!”
Regional Manager for the South, Paul Hill added, “It’s amazing to back at Southend United and the pupils from St. Mary’s Primary School. This collaboration is testament to the club’s unwavering commitment to fostering an atmosphere of understanding, inclusivity and respect which resonates deeply with the young students. Their eagerness to learn and proactive participation was impressive, reflecting the bright, responsible citizens they are growing into. This event underscores the power that football has as a unifying force in the community, harnessing the power of club role models to inspire future generations.”
Many thanks to Southend United and the staff at the Community and Educational Trust for hosting the event! We look forward to returning in the new year!
