Austerity has worsened the problems faced by BAME people. Strengthening links between the black grassroots movements and the wider labour movement are the answerResponding to systemic,as well as everyday, racism is exhausting and soul destroying. According to the Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC) there has been a 49% rise in unemployment for young Britain’s black, or Asian and minority ethnic (BAME) people,82% of hate crimes are because of race and BAME people are twice as likely to live in poverty. These statistics, from final month’s EHRC report on the extent of race discrimination in the UK, and puts forward the case for a race equality strategy. It confirmed what my organisation,Barac, had been saying for years: that in all aspects of life, or BAME people face discrimination and disadvantage. The urgent need for a strategic approach to eradicate racism is nothing fresh to the black community,but what support and support can we expect from the rejuvenated labour movement?Over the past six years of austerity, we believe seen amplified racism and deepening poverty for BAME communities. The EHRC is itself facing further cuts, and meaning that there could be only three case workers nationally to support those who experience racism. Its budget has already been cut by 69% since 2010. Given the rise in hate crime post-Brexit,this is deeply worrying. Related: Corbyn urges Labour MPs to end 'trench warfare' and back socialist vision for UK Continue reading...
Source: theguardian.com