As a race equality charity, Action for Race Equality (ARE) has had to respond to questions (and sometimes criticism) regarding its work. But last week, ARE had to meet a unique challenge when those asking the questions about inequalities were a group of sixth formers.
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Black History Month allows us to reflect on, celebrate and embrace our collective past. But it is also an opportunity to engage those who are not familiar, aware or exposed to Black British life in the 21st Century.
With this in mind ARE accepted an invitation from Aylesbury Grammar school in Hertfordshire to deliver a session as part of its Inspirational Speakers Programme (ISP). Approximately 20 years ago, the school was 89% white. Because of changes in catchment area and the development of the area around Aylesbury, the school is now 42% white.
Black History Month is an opportunity to emphasise that Black history is present, relevant, and essential to understanding Britain’s past, present, and future. This opportunity gave ARE a platform to engage directly with young people, raise awareness about issues affecting young Black, Asian and Mixed Heritage people and how ARE’s programmes address these challenges.
The aim of thre ISP is to encourage students to think beyond their A-Level subjects i.e. to be curious about, and gain a realistic understanding of life beyond the classroom, such as why do dispartites exist and how will they affect some classmates and not others?
On this occasion nearly 400 sixth formers gathered to watch our campaign fim, Roots, and then hear Indra Nauth, Deputy Chief Executive, talk about the aims of objectives of ARE and why it is important to pursue them and Brianna Cyrus, Head of Education and Youth Programmes, talked about “What I wish I’d been told at school.”, the overarching theme of the programme.
As Brianna said: ‘ We were keen to showcase our programmes and help students understand the role ARE plays in supporting young people and tackle inequalities.’
Many students were inquisitive about our organisation and eager to learn more about the issues discussed.
Students asked a range of insightful questions, most were based on understanding why networking and accessing opportunities can sometimes be more challenging for people from certain backgrounds. They also asked questions about race, inequality, representation, and the factors that contribute to disparities in education, employment, and wider society.
For some, the presentation introduced experiences they had not previously considered, leading to thoughtful discussions and reflection. They were keen to understand why disparities exist and what impact it can have.
The teacher who arranged the session was very supportive of the presentation and recognised its value. He welcomed the opportunity for students to engage with real-world issues and hear directly from those with lived experience.
We were equally happy to speak to, and hear from, tomorrow’s generation.
For more information about our work or to get in touch, please contact hello@actionforraceequality.org.uk.
