respectme, Show Racism the Red Card and Changing Faces are challenging prejudices that lead to youngsters being treated unfairly
A new campaign has been launched that seeks to address prejudice based bullying in schools.
Launched in collaboration between Scotland’s anti-bullying service respectme, Show Racism the Red Card and Changing Faces, Celebrating Difference will encourage young people to celebrate the things that make individuals unique, and challenge the prejudice that leads to young people being bullied or treated unfairly.
Learning packs will be used to prompt positive conversations among young people about the importance of accepting ourselves and others for who we each are. They will also inform teachers on addressing bullying behaviour.
Katie Ferguson, service director of respectme, said: “Celebrating Difference will highlight to young people the importance of respect and fairness for all.
“We all have similarities and differences – and we are each completely unique – that is something to be celebrated. We hope by the end of the campaign that we’ve helped contribute to a culture of celebration and understanding of this in Scotland’s schools and youth settings.
“We have worked in collaboration with Changing Faces and Show Racism the Red Card to create a suite of materials and feel that they will be invaluable for young people, as well as educators in Scotland, in addressing bullying behaviours.”
Marie McQuade, interim head of Scotland, Changing Faces, said: 'Changing Faces are delighted to be part of this collaborative campaign which seeks to highlight the challenges faced by young people in Scotland with a visible difference and to inspire a positive change in attitude through enhanced understanding and education around the value of diversity."
Jordan Allison, campaign manager, of Show Racism the Red Card Scotland, said: “There is currently a pressing need for resources to help people understand diversity in both education and in the workplace. We feel collaborative partnerships like this can produce real quality materials, so thank you to RespectMe & Changing Faces for helping to bridge this gap with us.”