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Race Equality
1) Race Equality
We know that racism is still and alive well in the UK in the 21st Century. Racist harassment, abuse and attacks are still part and parcel of everyday life for our Black and Asian members, particularly where our members are in jobs that bring them into contact with members of the public.
Fighting racism is an ongoing priority for Usdaw. As racism is there in the workplace, in the community and within organisations, so challenging it is always on our agenda.
2) Campaigning against the BNP
Campaigning against the racist British National Party (BNP) is a real priority for Usdaw members. The really bad news is that that the BNP won a total of 13 seats in May 2003 so they now have 16 local councillors across England, 11 more than before the elections. One BNP councillor is one too many but it’s important to remember that there are millions of people across the UK that recognise the BNP for what they are – a party with a racist agenda of 'Rights For Whites'.
3) Local Get-togethers for Black and Asian members
We often hold ‘get-togethers’ in our Usdaw divisions for our Black and Asian members. These are informal events that bring our Black and Asian members together so that they can discuss the issues that directly affect them at work and talk about how Usdaw can help to resolve problems. Members also suggest ways in which we can encourage more Black and Asian members to get involved in the union and how we can best make sure that the Union remains relevant to our Black and Asian membership.
4) Update on Amina Lawal’s case
Usdaw’s Race Relations Committee has been closely following the progress of Amina Lawal’s appeal against the sentence of death by stoning imposed by a Shariah Court in March 2002. We are pleased to be able to report that Amina Lawal’s appeal, heard on the 25 September 2003, was successful and the sentence of death quashed.
5) 'Racism is No Joke' video
Usdaw’s Race Relations Committee has produced a hard-hitting video called 'Racism is No Joke.' The video includes footage of our Black and Asian members talking frankly about racism and racist abuse at work and in the community. It also flashes up some scary statistics proving that racism is still alive and well in Britain today even if it is less out-spoken than it was 40 years ago.
6) Time off for religious festivals
Usdaw has produced guidance for reps to help them negotiate time off and workplace facilities for members that have religious beliefs other than Christianity.
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