NASUWT calls for action to secure racial justice
On the 50th anniversary of the introduction of the first Race Relations Act in 1965, the NASUWT, the largest teachers’ union in the UK, is calling for action to secure racial justice and to end racial discrimination, racial violence and racial hatred.
Chris Keates, General Secretary of the NASUWT, said:
“Far from being consigned to the textbooks of history, racism continues to blight the lives and life chances of black and minority ethnic children and young people, teachers and communities.
“No doubt many will debate whether Britain is a fairer and more tolerant society today than it was 50 years ago. However, the facts indicate that there is still a long way to go to secure equal rights and equal opportunities for all.
“Increased racially and religiously motivated attacks on black and minority ethnic communities and on religious minorities is also fuelling concerns for the future of race relations in Britain.
“Schools and colleges have an important role to play in helping to build a fair and just society.
“However, it is a sad indictment that when asked, the majority of teachers from black and minority ethnic groups still say that black and Asian people living in Britain are rarely or never treated fairly, and two-thirds of these teachers also say that they are pessimistic about the future prospects for racial justice in the UK.
“Government needs to take genuine steps to address racially discriminatory practices and racial injustice within the education system and to secure compliance with existing legal duties under the Equality Act 2010.
“The NASUWT is spearheading the Act for Racial Justice campaign to put the spotlight on these enduring problems and to secure the right to live in Britain free from racial prejudice, discrimination, harassment and bigotry.”
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