'Together we belong': How this inspirational group of Leeds school pupils are standing up to racism
Inspirational school children used the power of song to stand against racism and prejudice in a moving presentation to councillors in Leeds.
Youngsters from schools in Harehills came together in voice to perform their song We All Belong at Leeds Civic Hall.
Their poignant lyrics included: “I’m from here. You’re from here. Together we belong.”
Their performance came as the Harehills Community Champions came together at full council to give suggestions about how to tackle discrimination.
It was part of the “Belonging Project”, organised by the charity Global Learning Leeds, which runs education programmes in the city.
The charity aims to tackle stereotyping and misunderstanding with children urging on the city to stand up against racism.
A leaflet from the charity said: “A key driver of stereotyping, misunderstanding, fear and prejudice is a lack of contact with people different to ourselves.”
The children suggested a social media campaign and non-uniform days at schools where children would wear red to oppose racism.
They said: “Then if people see racism happening on the streets they can stand up against it.”
They were invited to the meeting by Coun Salma Arif, Labour councillor for Gipton and Harehlls.
Coun 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.”