Opposing racism - defending multiculturalism - celebrating diversity
The National Assembly Against Racism, with the support of UNISON, has
launched a campaign to defend and promote multiculturalism 'One Society
- Many Cultures'. Campaign materials including the campaign leaflet,
stickers and t-shirts in a variety of colours and sizes are available
from the office. Please email info@naar.org.uk.
Britain is a dynamic and successful multicultural society thanks to the contribution of all its citizens, including the waves of migrants that have settled here over many centuries. Migrants have been critical to the success of Britain’s public services and continue to enrich the economy and cultural life immeasurably.
Mutual respect for people’s rights to express their culture without harming others has been at the heart of ensuring this success. This principle of multiculturalism is the social framework that has emerged from 40 years of anti-racist struggle and must be defended. The success of this model of multiculturalism stands in contrast with the stark inequality and social conflict evident in other European countries, where enforced assimilation to a ‘superior’ culture has been promoted.
The assertion by some politicians and sections of the media that multiculturalism is a failed “social experiment” which encourages separateness has no basis in reality. Overwhelming evidence points to the opposite – British society has become more integrated as it becomes more diverse. Where multiculturalism is actively celebrated, a positive climate is created in which everyone’s contribution is welcomed and racism is combated.
Celebrating multiculturalism and diversity has:
• contributed to a decline in the number of racist attacks and incidents
• been central to UNISON and trade union values which have enabled action against bigotry and intolerance in the workplace
• helped London win its 2012 Olympics bid
• helped demonstrate unity in the wake of the July 7, 2005, terrorist attacks and avoid division between communities
Download our introductory leaflet (156kb, low-res).
Goto the One Society Many Cultures mini-site.