BLM Community Conference, February 2022

During the registration process participants were asked to submit questions for the Panel. Many questions were of a similar nature and were grouped to form one question.

What work is happening in schools to discuss racism and promote race equality? 

Layla in response to this question spoke about how racism is discussed as part of the health and wellbeing programme and PSHE classes. An anti-racism curriculum is currently being developed by Education Scotland and CRER (Coalition for Race equality and Rights).

Some schools have equality and diversity pupil councils where pupils have a voice.

In addition, the pupils took part in a survey to audit where they are now and what needs to happen next in terms of anti-racist practice and many schools organise activities as part of Black History Month.

There is also work being undertaken to increase teacher development within this agenda.

What is the best considered response to people who say ‘White Lives Matter'?

Councillor Kelly responded to this question. He quoted from the civil rights activist Reverend Al Sharpton who in response to the slogan 'White Lives Matter' said it perfectly :

‘There’s never been any argument that white lives matter, there’s never been any debate, and when a white life is taken, it is litigated, prosecuted and, if convicted, incarcerated.

The problem is it has not been equal on the other side, so there’s been no equal need to say white lives matter – that has been a given and the system has worked that way.

It has not worked that way around black lives.

So we’re not saying black lives matter more - we’re saying black lives matter as much, equally and should be treated the same.’

Could the panel offer any advice to third sector organisations on overcoming barriers and encouraging engagement with those from Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic communities becoming Charity Trustees or Volunteer Company Directors?

Councillor Ashraf provided the response to this question.

He spoke about how organisations need to actively look at what they are doing already to be inclusive. They need to be explicit in adverts that you want to have BAME representation but not just for the sake of it. They need to be open to challenge themselves by hearing the issues and be open to challenge on unconscious bias.

Engaging with organisations that represent BAME people would be a good start. Increasing representation on boards is not a quick fix.

TJ asked Sir Geoff about the obstacles he has faced and how he has overcome them

Sir Geoff told us about an interview he went to in 1964 and on the panel was the United Kingdom’s second top politician who promptly said why don’t you go back home and grow bananas to which Sir Geoff replied that you can’t grow bananas in Haringey. To deal with racism you must have confidence in your abilities. Education is key to being able to defend yourself, knowing your worth and to cope better.

What can we do to celebrate what we have in common and our differences?

Naseem Hussain from the Muslim Women and Family Alliance spoke about the Inter-Faith work the group has been involved in. The partnership with a local Christian group has resulted in supportive relationships where people have found commonality through sharing meals, hosting joint events and open days, and fundraising for local common causes.  

Comments were also made by other panel members:

• listening to each other is key;
• the 2019 Kirking of the council was hosted for the first time at a Mosque and how this was a development we need more of;
• even if our differences are great, we need to recognise we are all one race – the Human Race; and
• there has been a belief that we are not equal. The concept of race and intelligence is made up. Whatever we are teaching we must encapsulate that – we have the same capacity , we just might look different.