Zero Discrimination Day (1 March)
Posted: 1 March 2017 at 9:10 am | Author: Alison German
Discrimination is the unjust or prejudicial treatment of different categories of people. Discrimination can take many forms, such as direct discrimination, where you are treated less favourably than someone else as a direct result of anything from gender and sexual orientation, to religious or political beliefs. Other forms include indirect discrimination, when a rule or condition works against a specific group of people, and harassment and victimisation, including intimidating or offensive behaviour, or making someone victim of fewer opportunities.
How can we stop discrimination?
Start with yourself
It’s important to remember not everyone is raised in the same way and that we are all a product of our backgrounds; be open to learning more about other peoples points of view and the motivations and thought processes behind why they are the way they are.
Practice inclusivity
Challenge yourself when it comes to practicing inclusion in your everyday life. Is there room for every voice at your staff meeting? Has every child been invited to the party? Have you asked an elder what they have to say? Is there someone whose opinion is never touched upon? It is important to celebrate, not only, where there is common ground, but also where there is difference.
Speak up against discrimination
Don’t ignore discriminatory behaviour in others, even if you are close to them. Speaking up against discrimination when you see or experience it will help raise awareness and challenge others’ views.
Support others
Support others who are experiencing discrimination and encourage them to take the appropriate action needed to improve their situation; this could be anything from taking records of discrimination, pushing forward with workplace procedures or seeking advice where necessary.
If you feel you are being discriminated against on placement, at work, or in College; please contact us. The College has a zero tolerance policy towards all discriminatory behaviour, whether intentional or unintentional. Incidents of discriminatory behaviour are a serious matter and will be dealt with appropriately.