Celebrating Black History: Beyond The Month
Fulham Football Club's Academy age groups embarked on an important educational journey to the Black Cultural Archives, situated in the heart of Windrush Square, Brixton. This initiative was part of the Premier League Truce Cup project, which commemorates and honours the ceasefires of the First World War.
This visit was a significant component of the Club's commitment to fostering cultural awareness and understanding among its young talents. The Academy players, ranging from various age groups, took a profound step in engaging with the rich tapestry of black history that has played an integral role in shaping not only the United Kingdom, but the global community.
During their visit, the young aspiring footballers delved into the comprehensive archives, immersing themselves in the stories of resilience, determination, and triumph of black individuals who have left an indelible mark on various aspects of society. This initiative was part of the Truce Cup project, a remarkable undertaking by the Club to commemorate and honour the ceasefires of the First World War, while promoting unity and diversity.
As a creative task inspired by their visit, the Academy groups were challenged to craft poems celebrating iconic black sports figures who have opened doors of opportunity and broken barriers. The young talents showcased their profound understanding of the cultural significance of these figures and their impact on the world of sports.
Additionally, the Academy players were tasked with expressing their personal views on what diversity truly meant to them through poetry, emphasising the importance of unity and inclusivity. Among these talented individuals, 11-year-old Zach Norton's poem shone brightly and was selected as the winner. Watch below as players and staff narrate Zach's words.
Zach's heartfelt words resonated deeply with those overseeing the competition, including the Club's Academy Player Care Mentor Matthew Briggs, Diversity and Inclusion Manager Jamie Dapaah, Player Care Manager Claire-Marie Pomeroy, and Farai Hallam, Premier League Academy Support Manager. Zach's achievement highlighted the success of the initiative in fostering a deeper appreciation of black history and its vital role in shaping the world we live in today. This educational journey not only celebrated the diversity within Fulham's Academy, but also underlined the Club's ongoing commitment to nurturing well-rounded and socially conscious individuals, both on and off the pitch.
