Unions have a proud record of challenging racism and discrimination and of fighting for equal opportunities.
This leaflet counters some of the racist stories currently circulating. It also provides practical guidance for union reps and activists to tackle racist language and behaviour in the workplace.
 |
 |
 |
 |
|
We are being overwhelmed by migrants and refugees
The UK has a population of some 59 million. Last year 110,000 people sought refuge in this country (less than 0.2%) and a fifth of those were children and spouses.
Immigrants and refugees sponge off the state
The OECD anual report states that of those coming to Britain in 1997, 50 percent were 'workers' contributing to the economy and a further 20 percent were dependants. Only 5 percent were refugees.
Most immigrants are from Asia
Americans count for one in five, while Australia, Canada and New Zealand are amongst the top five nations of origin for immigrants.
Most immigrants don't work
Nearly one if five of those coming to the UK had work permits in the 'highly skilled' catergory.
Immigrants take jobs that British people need
In 1995 there were over four working people for every pensioner in the UK. By 2050 this 'support ratio' will have fallen to less than three. without immigration into the UK, the UN estimates that the retirement age will have to go up to 72.
Challenging racism is never easy. It requires confidence. You need to know what you're talking about and you need support from others. As a union rep you may find yourself in a hostile environment where you can only gain one or two members' support in the struggle against racist language and behaviour. But that is still better than nothing. It gives you a base to build on, and your plans could include:
- Targeting unsympathetic members
- Placing handouts around the workplace to counter myths and explain topical race-related issues
- Holding small informal lunch time discussion groups
- Publicity on themes that promote cultural diversity, e.g. union social trips to restaurants and shows
- A programme of training as part of a wider commitment from the employer to challenge racism and discrimination at work
Specific training could include:
- Identifying racist and discriminatory behaviour
- Examining the employer's equal opportunities policy
- Reporting and recording discriminatory incidents
- Organising a workplace campaign against discrimination
For more information, you could try contacting some of the following groups:
- The Community Relations Council
- The local council's equal rights or race relations department
- The trades union council
- Local community groups
Publications
You can also order Tackling Racism - A TUC workbook, available from TUC Publications,
Congress House, Great Russell Street, London WC1B 3LS or via the TUC website
www.tuc.org.uk The cost to
trade union members is £5.
Tackling Racism is also available as an online course, contact Jackie Williams on 020 7467 1253
The leaflet Racism at Work - A crime in anyone's language, which deals with rights in the workplace, is available from the TUC Know Your Rights line on 0870 600 4882
Trades Union Congress
London WC1
www.tuc.org.uk
Original printed leaflet designed and produced by Anderson Lambert
Cover photo: Murdo MacLeod