Follow-up film to ‘Blacks Can’t Swim’ announced for May 2021 release

Ed Accura, the producer behind the feature film documentary “A Film Called Blacks Can’t Swim”, has announced a follow-up film, Blacks Can’t Swim The Sequel, which is set for global release in May 2021.

The second feature film documentary combines acting with real interview footage of 14-25-year-olds from the Black community voicing their thoughts on why their generation does not swim.

The story follows two Black youths (Layla and K-Frost) from a south London council estate, who are part of a music and sports-based community program designed to help give young adults from disadvantaged backgrounds a better chance in life. But to complete this program which opens doors to a world of opportunities, they must learn to swim.

“Aquaphobia still persists in many Black parents who didn’t get the opportunity to learn the skill and who still believe it’s safer to stay away from the water than to learn how to swim,” says Accura.

“There comes a point where this generational cycle has to be broken and that time is now.”

According to official figures released by Sport England, 95% of black adults and 80% of black children in England do not swim. Ed is also co-founder of the Black Swimming Association (BSA), which was set up in March this year to champion inclusivity, representation and diversity in aquatics; highlighting the value of swimming as an essential life-saving skill and showcasing aquatic opportunities and pathways which will otherwise be invisible to Black communities.

Danielle Obe, Interim CEO for the BSA, said: “Blacks Can’t Swim The Sequel” is an accurate representation of the barriers the Black community face when it comes to swimming, whether that stems from an inherited cultural belief, or simply not having the access, knowledge or confidence they need to get in the pool. It’s time we broke down those barriers, and the BSA is proud to be the first organisation of its kind to tackle this issue head on.

“With support from the aquatic governing bodies, we can diversify the sport that saves lives and make positive change. This includes more representation for Black people at all levels in the sport, from the board room to the swimming pool, and making water safety, life-saving and drowning prevention skills accessible for Black communities everywhere.”

Blacks Can’t Swim The Sequel, is scheduled for a global release in May 2021.