In this week’s guest column, speaker, teacher and writer Adrian Arundel Clarke explores the role of education in stamping out racism in society. He also explains why “actions speak louder than words” and explores some of the solutions for the education sector to help create racial equality.
The killing of George Floyd was a violent and senseless act, played out, second by horrific second, on a mobile device in front of a global audience. It has pricked the conscience of the world and represents a pivotal moment in my life, highlighting just how far we still have to go to bring about a more equitable world. In the context of the Coronavirus pandemic and lock down fatigue, his death takes on even greater symbolism; that my life and the lives of my black brothers and sisters are simply disposable, that we are somehow worth less.
It was a shot in the arm – a sudden jolt that has compelled me to take action. I want to take a few moments to pause and reflect on the past few days and two things I’ve done to move the dial on engaging a white audience with greater awareness of everyday racism and a greater understanding of the reality of being a person of colour in the 21st century.
What better way to start than an opportunity to air my thoughts on a national radio station in the UK, on LBC; where I commented on the subject of racism and education. Working as a teacher, this subject matters enormously to me. My key message: none of us are free until all of us are free – that racism makes victims of all of us, the perpetrators and those on the receiving end of both racist abuse and micro aggressions.
RACE & EDUCATION
The recording of my conversation on LBC travelled some distance across my network and beyond. It was well received and I felt compelled to do more – but what? The idea came to me on a walk, and I set to work galvanising support and then organising a forum on Race and Education, in conjunction with Jesus College Oxford University. The event was a huge success with a variety of professionals attending from all over the world. The forum focused on four key issues:
1) What is the role of education in bringing about societal change in the UK?
2) Anti-Racism in the context of white privilege – what does this mean?
3) What needs to happen now to bring about racial equality?
4) Personal testimonies, the black experience and questions/comments from the audience.
Our panel of experts included broadcaster and journalist Samira Ahmed; Chair of the panel – Patricia Daley, Vice Principal and Professor in Geography at Jesus College; Paulina Kewes, Professor in English Literature at Oxford University; Clare Williams, alumna of Oxford University; Dr Matt Williams, Access Fellow at Jesus College Oxford University; and myself, a teacher/Careers Leader and Alumna of Plater College, Oxford.
KEY THEMES
The key themes arising from our conversation included decolonisation of the curriculum; practical ways in which schools, teachers and key stakeholders can enhance social mobility within academia and wider society; tackling issues on white privilege; and recognising the different experiences and outcomes for Black people irrespective of social class. It was highlighted by all, that education is essential in promoting understanding and social mobility, but not a guarantee of enhanced social economic development for disenfranchised groups on the margins of society.
The panel reminded our audience that race is, of course, a social construct and that institutions and individuals must do their bit to bring about change. It is incumbent on the oppressor to play his or her part in educating themselves and taking action, in order to bring about a just society. It was agreed that racism is evident across all aspects of society, both institutional and structural, often expressed in subtle and unconscious ways. It was stressed that it was no longer good enough to state – “I’m not racist”, and that individuals must be actively anti-racist. Society should see anti-racist policies as a force for good and not special treatment meted out to black people. The discussion lasted 90 minutes (see video below).
TIME FOR CHANGE
The conclusion? Victim blaming must be discouraged – structural inequalities are embedded in society and manifest themselves disproportionately within black communities. Much research has been done in this area. It’s now time for the government to enact policies rather than procrastinate or deny the harmful effects of racism on BAME (Black, Asian, Minority, Ethnic) communities. The time for change is now. However, this must be seen as an opportunity and not something to fear.
This forum is the first in a series of discussions around these important issues with the aim of promoting greater understanding and positive change in wider society. I’d love to hear about your experiences because #blacklivesmatter. Contact me here.
AUTHOR BIOGRAPHY
Adrian Arundel Clarke is a teacher, speaker, consultant, writer and poet. He has studied law, history and politics at four UK universities, including Oxford University, Durham University, London Metropolitan University and Sussex University. After spending the initial part of his career in law and publishing, he decided to become a teacher, and has been in the teaching profession for the last 16 years. He first taught Law, Citizenship and English at Mayfield Secondary School, Dagenham Essex. He then went on to teach History, Citizenship and Business Studies at Ernest Bevin College in Tooting, Wandsworth. He was also the College Council Coordinator, the body responsible for promoting and encouraging pupils to speak out on social issues. He is currently leading Careers education at Ernest Bevin College, rated by the latest OFSTED Report as providing “high quality” careers education. His role requires him to prepare all students for the world of work and adult life with timely information, advice and guidance, whilst developing and enhancing their life skills.
Sign up for our newsletter
