Sport

This is one area where there is an expectation that black people should achieve and unfortunately it has become a stereotype that black people have been saddled with which in some circumstances has been at the expense of other interests and qualities that black people enjoy.

Nonetheless it has been a route that has proven to be a passport to other opportunities. Southampton has produced stars in football, athletics, basketball and other sports and many have achieved national and international status.

Black history month and football

Saturday 4th October 2008
Launch of the ‘Text Messaging’ campaign at the Vosper Thorneycroft Sports Ground, Portsmouth Road.

The RJAS group will be officially launching a text messaging service, whereby victims of racism can discreetly report any incident. The project was managed by Hampshire football association’s disciplinary department will, in extreme cases, inform the police.

The project is designed to increase the level of reporting and increase the confidence that all cases will be investigated.

Saturday October 11th 2008
Community cohesion cup - is an annual five aside football tournament which celebrates the diversity of Southampton and encourages interaction between people from many different cultures and backgrounds. The event has successfully enabled people to form new friendships and bonds on a level playing field and take part in a special tournament that they extremely enjoy. This year’s event will take place at GOALS five-aside arena in Millbrook.

For more information call 0845 688 9370.

Saturday October 18th 2008 - The big game
Southampton v Watford

During Black History Month Southampton always nominate a game in October to specially celebrate Black History and the Watford game has been nominated.

Mark Ashton CEO has said that" Watford football club and its players, staff and supporters join Southampton football club in a joint commitment that they will not tolerate racism in any way, shape or form" Kick it out National week of action October 16th-28th. This is one of the most prominent equality and community initiatives in the country.

"Kick it out" will be represented at the Watford game Black footballers exhibition October 1st - October 10th . There will be a stand celebrating the success of black footballers at Southampton football club in the Civic Centre Southampton.