Kenny Tete visited nearby Melcombe Primary School last week to speak to pupils as part of the Club’s initiatives during Black History Month, and ahead of our No Room For Racism fixture against Bournemouth on Saturday.
Kenny spoke about his upbringing and the importance of taking the knee at selected matches to create an awareness around the issues of racism, not just in football but in society.
The session highlighted many positive aspects of appreciating and learning about different cultures, and embracing equality, diversity and inclusion.
“I was really happy to attend the session,” commented Kenny. “When I was young and went to school, we didn’t have this kind of education, it was more what your mother or father gave you at home.
“So it’s good to speak to children on these kinds of issues from an early age. I was surprised just how good their questions were too.”
Asked about the significance of players across the Premier League taking the knee during two match-weeks (8th-16th October), Kenny replied: “It means a lot. It’s important. I think there is a lot of room for improvement as well regarding racism.
“I think it’s better to kneel one or two weeks instead of every week. Maybe we can get more attention that there is no room for racism, and everyone has to see that everyone is equal.
“It doesn’t matter where you are from or where you are born or your religion.”
The Club’s Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Lead, Jamie Dapaah, added: “Fulham Football Club was delighted to have been given the opportunity to visit Melcombe Primary School to deliver an educational awareness workshop in celebration of Black History Month.
“Black History Month is a time for us all to celebrate, commemorate and educate current and future generations of leaders.
“Fulham champions equality, diversity and inclusion throughout all business operations, and I would like to thank staff, pupils and parents of Melcombe Primary School for supporting us spread the powerful message of inclusivity through sport.”
