The Met vs The Boyz
It’s not often that vulnerable Asian boys engage in a game of pool with the local metropolitan police. ACF broke down many barriers when they organised their first pool tournament between the police and young Asian boys in 2006. Following the event’s success, the tournament has now become an eagerly anticipated annual fixture.
The Game in action
June 2006 witnessed an amazing event as local Waltham Forest boys and Police officers challenged each other to a game of pool with a stronger meaning in the background. The goal of ‘The Met vs. The Boyz’ was to bring together both teams in a neutral environment with the common aim of playing pool. The event aimed to promote mutual understanding and the realisation of a shared goal: a safer neighborhood.
The match had the hugely positive result of defusing the tension between both parties. In fact, the outcome of the tournament far exceeded our wildest hopes and expectations. It not only helped to change the opinions of both parties, but also offered a depoliticised and relaxed atmosphere in which both sides could voice feelings that had previously gone unsaid. Everyone came away with an improved understanding of each others’ backgrounds and opinions.
The Result
ACF’s annual pool tournament is a positive community initiative which gives both parties a useful platform to discuss shared issues. The Police were able to voice their concerns while making a good effort to gain the support of the Asian youths. The Boyz expressed their feelings of being unjustly oppressed, demonized and stereotyped. The Police noted the issues raised and promised to work towards amending the negativity. Overall, it has become an event that ACF looks forward to conducting on a yearly basis. We will ensure that it not only gets bigger and better, but also widens its objectives and results.
