Focus on Education July 2021 No. 1

We celebrate the diversity of our school community; aim for better mutual understanding as we learn from each other’s stories; and pledge to stamp out any form of racism in our school and to strive for inclusion and equity in our world.

Numerous inquisitive conversations can ensue as we share our pride in our own distinctive stories – conversations that are sometimes avoided through fear of causing offence.

One of the best outcomes of our discussions around race this year and next should undoubtedly be a greater willingness to talk openly and to understand and respect differences rather than an erstwhile orthodoxy of ‘not seeing difference’. Put more positively, however:

“Diversity is not about how we differ. Diversity is about embracing one another’s uniqueness.” (Ola Joseph)

 In becoming a more culturally competent person, one must have the ability to think, feel, and act in ways that acknowledge, respect, and build on ethnic, socio-cultural, and linguistic diversity. As a school, I believe that it is our duty to embrace diversity, model positive interactions, and address the difficult questions.

In this way, we should treat each other with kindness, compassion and understanding. We should remember that race and Religion and/or belief are two of the protected characteristics under the Equality Act 2010. We need to act positively and directly at all times to uphold our values, ethos and multi-cultural identity. The responsibility for this lies with us all.

“The only thing necessary for the triumph of evil is for good men to do nothing.” (Edmund Burke)

 

Stay well and safe.

Be kind to yourself and each other.

Best wishes,

Dr Bird