It was a social experiment of sorts - A cross between wife swap and Big Brother. Community leaders had criticised the Channel 4 production as an attempt to smear the name and image of the city and Council Leader Ian Greenwood criticised Channel Four for not intervening when Bradford resident and participant, Sabbiyah, was grabbed in local pub The Boy and Barrel, in Westgate, by a local who slated her dress and her presence in the pub.
Speaking to TheTelegraph & Argus Councillor Greenwood added: “That man’s actions were unacceptable in any culture.
“She (Sabbiyah) was right to be upset and for a television programme to allow that to continue in that way is absolutely unacceptable. I think it is a disgrace.
“She did not know it would be like that, it was just another pub to her and she had never been in one in her life.”
In make believe world teetotal Sabiyyah, who did not serve alcohol, agreed to sample what life was like in a British pub. In real life many Muslims would simply refuse to go inside a pub full stop. In real life there would be no compromise on such an important aspect of the faith. Her partner, mixed raced Audra saw no harm in using the word Paki, even though she herself had suffered racism.
‘When’s the last time you’ve come out in a miniskirt and a low-cut top?” a punter sneered.
“Have you even tried a miniskirt?,” someone sniggered.
“I think you’d look bloody lovely in a miniskirt,” snorted another.
Another shouted: “If you want to be here, dress like us.”
The vilification of the 22 year old by ignorant regulars in Audrey’s local showed just how much work is needed to be done to encourage understanding and ensure mutual respect between communities. Thankfully this sick bunch are the minority.
The relationship between sheet metal worker Damon and ex rugby player Rashid was one that blossomed, and was particularly uplifting to watch. Damon had believed that Mosques were terror training camps. Rashid, a devout Muslim, insisted on praying in congregation at the Mosque and this initially caused ripples with his participants, with even Sabiyyah wading in to criticise him.
Rashid is a well-known face in Bradford and what you so on the screen is what you get in real life. He's a thoroughly nice chap who's enthusiasm to work for the common good is almost an obsession. Many people will digest Rashid's demeanour and actions and be inspired by the way he operated.
Rashid’s and Damon’s was a real story. Damon felt that the value of his elders was evident amongst people like Rashid and his clan. The lads met and greeted locals, enjoyed a bonding gym workout and Damon observed Muslims praying in the Mosque. His experience was very different to what Sabiyyah experienced. Rashid met Damon’s daughter and they both discovered that they were separated/divorced. It strengthened their bond.
Poor little Mohammed was taught some home truths by the feminist Maura and his walkout was probably more to do with his inability and refusal to carry out what he considered to be wholly women's tasks than being offended by the question put to him. His tantrum was embarrassing and comical. Bottom line - He couldn't hack it.
Then there was the heart on sleeve former copper, Jens, who couldn't seem to get a sentence out without using the phrases "black bastard" and "I'm only joking" before chuckling about the old days when he'd wind up Asian colleagues about going "Paki bashing". His retorts would end with a pat on the back for poor Desmond who found himself getting increasingly agitated by his partners loose use of racist language.
The relationship between sheet metal worker Damon and ex rugby player Rashid was one that blossomed, and was particularly uplifting to watch. Damon had believed that Mosques were terror training camps. Rashid, a devout Muslim, insisted on praying in congregation at the Mosque and this initially caused ripples with his participants, with even Sabiyyah wading in to criticise him.
Rashid is a well-known face in Bradford and what you so on the screen is what you get in real life. He's a thoroughly nice chap who's enthusiasm to work for the common good is almost an obsession. Many people will digest Rashid's demeanour and actions and be inspired by the way he operated.
Rashid’s and Damon’s was a real story. Damon felt that the value of his elders was evident amongst people like Rashid and his clan. The lads met and greeted locals, enjoyed a bonding gym workout and Damon observed Muslims praying in the Mosque. His experience was very different to what Sabiyyah experienced. Rashid met Damon’s daughter and they both discovered that they were separated/divorced. It strengthened their bond.
Poor little Mohammed was taught some home truths by the feminist Maura and his walkout was probably more to do with his inability and refusal to carry out what he considered to be wholly women's tasks than being offended by the question put to him. His tantrum was embarrassing and comical. Bottom line - He couldn't hack it.
Then there was the heart on sleeve former copper, Jens, who couldn't seem to get a sentence out without using the phrases "black bastard" and "I'm only joking" before chuckling about the old days when he'd wind up Asian colleagues about going "Paki bashing". His retorts would end with a pat on the back for poor Desmond who found himself getting increasingly agitated by his partners loose use of racist language.
Bradford can’t be that bad can it? In fact, a 2010 survey conducted by Lloyds TSB insurance ranked Bradford as the city with the most neighbourly values in the UK.
Overall, the project was uncomfortable viewing but at the same time very different to our everyday realities. These projects require a lot more thought and a touch of realism, with less focus on sensationalism. If these ingredients can be added then there's a slight chance that the experiment can be seen to be somewhat positive.
