Thoughts on the Commission on Race and Ethnic Disparities’ Race and Racism Report

Over the past few days, we’ve been reading and digesting the report on race published by the Commission on Race and Ethnic Disparities. The report has sparked a polarising debate in the news and on social media on whether it is a true portrayal of the UK’s current status, with regards to racism and inequality.

The report does reflect some improvement in educational outcomes within ethnically diverse communities, however, we feel it doesn’t tell the full story. This report underestimates the institutionalised racism and disparities experienced by many of the diverse young people that we work with. Furthermore, creating any single story about racism doesn’t recognise how it is experienced differently by so many people.

We recognise the progress that has been made in education, but there is still much to do to address the attainment gap for some pupils. City Year UK is dedicated to closing that gap, and to giving each and every child in our partner schools the same opportunities to reach their highest and brightest potential – regardless of race, geographical location, family influence, socio-economic background, culture or religion. We’re doing this through mentoring and coaching in the classroom and playground from our City Year Mentors, along with tutoring for those who need it the most.

If you want to join us to help tackle educational inequality, hear more from our City Year Mentors or simply learn more about what we do, please visit our website at cityyear.org.uk.