Pupils and footballers kick off new anti-racism campaign
Edinburgh school pupils have been showing racism the red card at a special event at Hibernian FC this afternoon (Thursday 19 September).
The event involved local primary seven pupils from St
Mary’s Primary Leith and Lorne Primary schools coming to the club to
participate in a day of fun and interactive education for Show Racism
the Red Card.
The young people engaged in various activities throughout the day
that promoted anti-racism, anti-sectarianism and overall messages of
equality and respect.
One highlight of the day came in the afternoon where the pupils
posed as media journalists and had the opportunity to ask questions on
racism and sectarianism to a guest panel.
They carried out preparatory work before attending the event so
they were armed with thought-provoking questions and eager to embark on
the role play activity and proudly introduce their newspaper and
questions.
This event proved a great way of educating them about the dangers
of racism and sectarianism, empowering them to become active citizens,
safely challenging racism and sectarianism in their own communities and
beyond.
Show Racism the Red Card used this event to announce the launch
of their anti-racism/anti-sectarianism Creative Competition. This
competition is open to all schools and colleges across Scotland and
culminates with an awards ceremony at Hampden Park.
Cllr Paul Godzik, Education Convener for the City of Edinburgh
Council, said: "Show Racism the Red Card make a huge contribution to
tackling racism and sectarianism in Scotland. I'm delighted they are
working with young people here in Edinburgh."
Vicki Burns, Campaign Manager, said "The Creative Competition is a
fantastic opportunity for young people around Scotland to get involved
with the campaign whilst showing that racism and sectarianism is not
welcome in Scotland."
Liam Craig, of Hibernian Football Club and competition
ambassador, said: "Being the Ambassador for this competition is a great
opportunity for me to work along with Show Racism the Red Card and help
school and college students be creative whilst helping raise the profile
and awareness of Show Racism the Red Card in Scotland."
The Creative Competition is now open and the deadline for entries is Friday 31st January 2014.