Janine GriffithsA group of East Leeds schoolchildren have been sharing their vision for a more inclusive city after presenting their anti-racism ideas at a meeting in the Civic Hall.
The pupils from schools across Harehills were taking part in the Belonging Project, an initiative created by Global Learning Leeds, a charity that works with schools to challenge stereotypes and build understanding between communities. The scheme encourages children to explore how prejudice develops and what can be done to confront it in everyday life.
In a leaflet explaining the project’s ethos, the charity wrote: “A key driver of stereotyping, misunderstanding, fear and prejudice is a lack of contact with people different to ourselves.”
During the Civic Hall session, the pupils joined forces to perform their song “We All Belong” at Leeds Civic Hall.
They also spoke about the importance of tackling racism early and proposed practical steps schools could take. Among their suggestions were a citywide social media push and designated non-uniform days where children would wear red to signal their opposition to racism.
The group explained that they wanted to inspire others to act when they witness discrimination. “Then if people see racism happening on the streets they can stand up against it,” they said.
The children were invited to share their work by Councillor Salma Arif, Labour representative for Gipton and Harehills, who praised the group’s commitment to ensuring young voices are heard in discussions about equality.
Speaking about the event, councillor Salma Arif said: “Arif said: “I was proud as the local councillor to help make it possible for young people from Harehills to attend Civic Hall and share their song and message.
“Their voices remind us that belonging, respect and unity must sit at the heart of our city.”
Global Learning Leeds hopes that projects like this will empower pupils to challenge harmful attitudes and help build a more welcoming city for everyone.
