The creators of a play aimed to make audiences think deeply about the unjust story of black boxer Cuthbert Taylor. Due to his color, he was prevented from competing for a British title despite his Olympic achievements. This play has sparked a passionate campaign by young theatregoers demanding a formal apology from the sport's governing body.

Young People's Call for Apology

Hundreds of children from south Wales, where Taylor lived, have written letters to the British Boxing Board of Control. More than 300 children from 13 schools have sent their voices after watching the play "The Fight". They are backed by Welsh politicians like Jack Sargeant. One letter reads, "We think it's unfair that Cuthbert Taylor and other boxers without white, British parents were excluded. The color bar was horrendous and disgraceful. It robbed him of his dream to be the British boxing champion."Schools involved include Cwmnedd primary, St Joseph's Catholic junior, Ysgol Gymraeg Santes Tudful, and Llanfaes community primary. Deputy headteacher Aisling Brady Saunders said it was the children's idea to write letters.Geinor Styles, the writer of the play, believed true stories have the power to overturn injustices. She was surprised by the children's initiative and saw theatre's ability to change lives.Taylor's grandson Alun Taylor emphasized the denial of his grandfather's basic human rights. Sargent is in full support and requested an apology.A letter from the board acknowledges the letters but declines to apologize, stating it was the government's decision.

The Impact of the Play

"The Fight" has been performed to over 4,600 children at the Dylan Thomas theatre in Swansea and is now staged at Theatr Brycheiniog in Brecon. This play has not only engaged children in a live theatrical performance but inspired them to take positive action. It shows the power of theatre in addressing historical injustices.The color bar, which ran from 1911 to 1948 and required fighters to have "two white parents" to compete for British titles, denied many talented boxers like Taylor their chance. It was a dark period in boxing history that has now come to light through this play.Despite the board's acknowledgement of the wrongfulness of the color ban, the lack of an apology remains a significant issue. It is hoped that this play will be a tipping point for change and that justice will be served for Cuthbert Taylor and all those affected by the color bar.