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Tackling sectarianism
25/09/2007
A display of artwork created by young people to spread the word that sectarianism has no place in Scotland was praised by the Minister for Community Safety as he helped launch HMIE's good practice guide for tackling sectarian attitudes.
Fergus Ewing announced the publication of "Count Us In: Promoting Understanding and Combating Sectarianism" which brings together successful examples of promoting diversity and challenging sectarian attitudes drawn from a number of schools.
The booklet was launched at a display of artwork by young people - designed to help challenge sectarian attitudes - including pupils at the shared campus St Joseph's and Broomhouse Primaries, those involved in the anti-sectarianism project at Right Track Coatbridge and from participants of the anti-sectarianism workshops of Possibilities East End Kids.
Mr Ewing said:
"The Scottish Government is committed to creating a Scotland of equal opportunities for all - a country where everyone has the chance to fulfil their potential regardless of their religion, race, age gender or creed.
"It is particularly encouraging to see young people help to spread the message that there is no place for sectarianism in a modern Scotland. They are the future - our future nurses, teachers, politicians and shopkeepers - that's why it's important that they don't develop sectarian attitudes.
"This good practice booklet should help teachers and others learn from what has worked in other schools to enhance their own work to challenge sectarian attitudes and I hope it can make a real difference."
Speaking about the publication HM Senior Chief Inspector Graham Donaldson said:
"I am delighted to see this booklet launched as part of the HMIE 'Count Us In' series. This shows clearly the positive contribution that schools can make to combating sectarianism. It also shows how good practice can be identified and highlighted as a result of inspection."
Jim Duffy, Area Manager of Right Track said:
"Often influenced by family and peers, some young people can arrive at Right Track with closed minds and a negative attitude regarding anything they perceive as different. At Right Track we actively encourage discussions and projects about tolerance, whether it be religious or cultural differences and we find that without negative pressure from others, the vast majority of young people are clearly against any form of bigotry, racism or sectarianism. Slowly but surely, initiatives such as this working to help make us all more aware and tolerant"
Melodie Conlin, Project Development Manager at PEEK said:
"Sectarian attitudes are often ingrained in our young people from an early age and it is vital that we challenge these and support young people to develop and reach their potential."