Tackling racism and promoting equality – development day for trade union reps and members

Thursday 11th April

0930 – 1600

Unison Office, 140-150 Pilgrim Street, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 6TH

Introduction

Recent months have seen a concerning increase in far-right organisation and visibility. The outcome of the EU referendum nationally, and wider international context, have created an environment in which far right activity is growing.

As a result, the UK is experiencing a hate crime wave. Recent statistics show a 29 per cent increase in the number of reported hate crimes in England and Wales, the largest since the Home Office began recording figures in 2011-12. 78 per cent of these crimes are race hate crimes.

The trade union movement has a responsibility to act to challenge far-right legitimacy and organisation, and to call out their encroachment into mainstream public life.

The TUC Race Advisory Group in collaboration with Show Racism the Red Card and TUC Trade Union Education has organised this development day for trade union reps and members. A regional Ambassador Programme will follow in the autumn.

To register a place please email Melanie Lowden at mlowden@tuc.org.uk or ring 0191 227 5550. If you email Melanie directly please provide the following information; full name, contact telephone, email, Trade Union/organisation, and any access or dietary requirements.

The event is free to attend, places are limited so please apply early. Closing date for registrations is Monday 1^st April. Please note you must register a place to attend.

Agenda

0930	Arrival and refreshments
0950	Introduction and background
1000	Ambassador Programme – an Overview
1015	Why are we here today?
	An exploration of the barriers to tackling racism in the workplace and throughout society including the impact of unconscious bias and privilege
1115	Break
1130	The role of law and legislation
	This session will explore the ways in which legislation and the law are designed to support a reduction in racism and prejudice and protect individuals both if they are targets of racism, but also as upstanders and responders to incidents of racism
1230	Lunch
1315	Recognising and responding to racist incidents
	This session aims to help participants feel more confident recognising racist incidents and ensure that they understand the value of responding appropriately to racist incidents. The workshop will also reinforce and extend knowledge regarding the appropriate steps to take if an incident arises
1415	Break
1430	The language of equality
	To provide the opportunity to consider and reflect on language relating to equality. The session will consider the power language has on our perceptions and to emphasise the significance of language in the promotion of equality, whilst allaying fears created by the media around correct use of terminology
1530	Trade Union Education
	This session will give an overview of the Trade Union Education Centre in Newcastle. Tutors will inform you of TUC courses which include the Certificate in Equality and also our Community learning courses, IT courses and our taster courses which are open to trade union members, friends and family
1600	Closing remarks