BATTLE AGAINST RACISM IN THE WORKPLACE CONTINUES

10 NOVEMBER 2006

This weekend, NASUWT, the largest union representing teachers and headteachers throughout the UK, will bring together black and minority ethnic teachers to inform the Union's continuing work to tackle racism in the workplace and the wider community.

Chris Keates, General Secretary, said:

“Research has found that harassment and discrimination continues to be a significant problem for black and minority ethnic teachers, particularly those who are newly qualified. Racism has been identified as a critical factor in the career choices of black and minority ethnic young people and in the drop-out rates from ITT institutions.

“The views expressed by members at this Conference will make an important contribution to assisting the Union in its continuing work to eradicate from the workplace not only these unacceptable attitudes but also the practices which have historically had a disproportionately negative impact on the careers of black and minority ethnic teachers.”

Roger McKenzie, the TUC's Midlands Regional Secretary, a speaker at the Conference, said:

“Teachers are already at the forefront of working against racism through the knowledge and experience they pass on to their pupils. The Conference is a great opportunity to continue the process of engaging in that work in the wider community. I'm delighted to be part of that process.”

Sukhwant Dhaliwal, from the Working Lives Research Institute, and Wilf Sullivan, the TUC's Race Equality Officer, will also be speaking at the Conference which will take place on Saturday 11 November at NASUWT Headquarters, Hillscourt, Rose Hill, Rednal, Birmingham B45 8RS.