Two days ago, I attended the conference at the Center for Contemporary Art, marking the end of the Anti-Racism Interim Governance Group (AIGG) and the sharing of their recommendations for the vision, mission, and structure of the Anti-Racism Observatory for Scotland.
It was very insightful, and people had the opportunity to ask many questions. Racism hasn't been adequately addressed in many countries and has often been taken lightly. A great-grandmother from India, who has lived in Scotland for a long time and has three generations here, shared accounts of how racism hasn't shown significant improvement for a long time.
Another person spoke up and said if there were not significant changes and accountability for those who engage in racist behavior, then she didn't want to be part of this movement.
Individuals from diverse racial backgrounds were in attendance and poured out their heavy hearts.
The event was attended by the Minister for Equalities, Migration, and Refugees, Emma Roddick, and provided an opportunity to hear from them, ask questions, and engage in conversation with the Co-Chairs of the AIGG.
The event also marked the publication of the AIGG community research report, which contributed in various ways. The community research mapped to the AIGG’s work.
Here is the significant question people want answers to:
Observatory Accountability
We would like to know who will be held accountable for how the anti-racist strategy is implemented.
What are your thoughts?
#AntiRacismConference #EqualityInAction #AIGGEvent #InclusiveScotland #RacismAwareness #CommunityResearch #EqualityAdvocacy #AccountabilityMatters #AntiRacistStrategy #EmpowerChange
In a world that claims progress, this article serves as a stark reminder that the fight against racism is far from over. The narratives shared at the AIGG conference demand more than just acknowledgment – they demand a challenge to the very system that perpetuates injustice. It's time to question, disrupt, and reshape our societal norms. How can we talk about change without addressing the root causes and holding the system accountable? The call for Observatory Accountability is a rallying cry for those unwilling to accept mere lip service. Let's challenge the system until it crumbles and rebuild it with justice at its core.
ReplyDeleteAbsolutely, your comment resonates deeply with the essence of the article. The fight against racism requires more than surface-level acknowledgment; it necessitates a profound challenge to ingrained systems of injustice. Your call to question, disrupt, and reshape societal norms is a powerful rallying cry for transformative action. The emphasis on addressing root causes and holding the system accountable aligns with the urgency for meaningful change. Let's indeed challenge the system until it crumbles, paving the way for a reconstructed foundation built on justice and equality. Thank you for your insightful perspective!
DeleteThis is a very Indebt article on how the conference went I love this. I believe that the AIGG should be held responsible for how the anti-racist strategy is implemented because from what I understand they are in charge of the project. Holding a conference to the effect of anti-racism I must say is applaudable but genuinely I don't see this making any difference.
ReplyDeleteThank you for your thoughtful comment! It's great to hear your appreciation for the in-depth coverage of the conference. Your point about the AIGG's responsibility for the anti-racist strategy is valid, and accountability is indeed crucial. While conferences are a positive step in raising awareness, your skepticism about immediate impact highlights the need for continuous evaluation and action beyond such events. Constructive criticism pushes us to strive for more effective solutions, and I'd love to hear your thoughts on what could make a significant difference in combating racism.
DeleteRacism isn't something I understand it stems from fear of the unknown and it is something that lingers in many people but doesn't show it's ugly head in most people which is a good thing
ReplyDeleteRacism isn't something I understand it stems from fear of the unknown and it is something that lingers in many people but doesn't show it's ugly head in most people which is a good thing
ReplyDeleteDisagreeing with the sentiment: Understanding racism is crucial. It's not just about the fear of the unknown; it's deeply rooted in historical biases, systemic structures, and ignorance. Minimizing it as a fear of the unknown overlooks the harsh reality faced by marginalized communities. Ignorance perpetuates racism, and acknowledging its roots is the first step toward dismantling its insidious presence in society. It's not just about not showing its ugly head; it's about actively dismantling the structures that allow it to persist. The origin of racism lies in historical prejudices, and to combat it, we must confront its roots rather than downplaying its impact.
DeletePeople must first understand the roots of racism. It has been around for years and until we discuss it with open minds, it will always be very hard to eradicate it.
ReplyDeleteAbsolutely, acknowledging and addressing the historical roots of racism is crucial for fostering meaningful discussions and working towards its eradication. Open dialogue is a powerful tool in promoting understanding and dismantling the deep-seated issues that contribute to systemic racism.
Delete...few if any people want to address racism. At best we seem to take a baby step forward and a couple of giant steps back.
ReplyDeleteSo perfect post, so great reflection and as it is not my place to speak, I give you all my support.
ReplyDeleteKisses
www.pimentadeacucar.com
Honestly, I feel they need to spend a day in their shoes and what they go through from shopping to applying for a loan. I think they would understand how much hurt there is even here in the States. I have heard stories from many people of color. And their distress has gone on for generations. Of course, I feel we need to accentuate the positive that is going forward in many neighborhoods that have been looked over for so long. Many grants are helping those find ways to feed their community with new ways of greenhouse gardening, to new business and artists finding ways to help the community. It is hard to stay positive, especially when many bad things continue to happen, but slowly things are changing for the better. We need to help those business and community grow for the better.
ReplyDeleteSuch important work! I wish Canada would do the same!
ReplyDeleteHay que tratar a todos como iguales. Te mando un beso.
ReplyDeleteThis deeply ingrained issue has persisted for years, and unless we openly engage in discussions about it, overcoming it will remain a huge challenge.
ReplyDeleteGreat article to against the racism. Success for your blog ok
ReplyDeleteVery good article. Your blog is very interesting.
ReplyDeleteThanks for visiting the Shipslog. Scotland and Ireland are both on my list to visit, but time is getting shorter. Nice shots.
ReplyDeleteA very inspiring post. Your article is great. I think that problems should always be talked about and spoken out loud so that people become aware of them!
ReplyDeleteGreetings from Poland!
I think people still are racists. Of course not all people, but many, many. And there is this "hidden racism", people claiming they are not racist - until somebody "different" comes close to them. It is sad....
ReplyDeleteArtigo muito interessante e pertinente, amiga Melody.
ReplyDeleteInfelizmente, ainda existe muito racismo e xenofobia, que deve ser irradiado das mentes mais doentias.
O ser humano é um ser humano. Independentemente da cor, etnia ou raça.
Gostei de ler, estimada amiga.
Grato pela visita e gentil comentário.
Votos de um feliz fim de semana!
Beijinhos.
Mário Margaride
http://poesiaaquiesta.blogspot.com
Thanks a lot =)
ReplyDeleteReally nice post <3 It's hard that some people are still have to be against others becauce of skin color, religion and so on. I don't understand them.
Very intriguing post. This is an issue that is steeped in families for generations. It's quite sad that we as humans have not evolved!
ReplyDeleteImportant Event and great Work. You look fantastic, the Trench suits you very well.
ReplyDeleteThank you for sharing a detailed reflection on the anti-racism conference in Scotland. I didn't know you were living there now. It is good you were able to hear these stories.
ReplyDelete