The Race Convention should have been an opportunity to bring together those
who are facing the sharp end of racism and discrimination in our society,
particularly at this crucial juncture when a complete overhaul
of equality legislation is taking place (Mayor's new onslaught on 'alarmist'
race watchdog, 27 November 2006) including the abolition of the CRE itself.
Indeed, what is so objectionable about this event is that it claims to
celebrate the CRE at the precise moment when it is being abolished,
with little being done by its current leadership to stop this
from happening.
Moreover this is taking place at a time when we are seeing
a rise in racist attacks nationally, spearheaded by unprecedented attacks
on the Muslim
community, asylum seekers and on multiculturalism, our values of
democracy and right to cultural and religious expression. The government
has sent the wrong message to the victims of racism, by abolishing the
only legislative body dealing with racism, at the time it was most needed.
Now
more than ever, we need a body like the CRE which has teeth and can really
challenge the rising tide of racism, racist attacks, institutional
racism and frames the debate in a way which celebrates multicultural
Britain and defends those who need support against discrimination.
The best
way to celebrate its anniversary is for all those who wish to challenge
racism to renew our calls for a legislative body that has Black
representation, the structures and necessary funding. The Discrimination
Law Review, which is not being adequately promoted and consulted upon,
is an opportunity to ensure the Single Equality Act goes some way to
redress the loss of the CRE, by creating laws to challenge institutional
discrimination
and deliver equality in our lifetime, through such means as positive
action, at least on the level provided for under European directives,
meaningful enforcement powers, sanctions and ability of ordinary people
to access justice. We therefore urge all anti-racists to pro-actively
contribute to the current Discrimination Law Review.