Birmingham students gather in Digbeth for anti racism festival
The Pass the Baton festival featured a tribute to the late poet, Benjamin Zephaniah.
Last updated 25th Apr 2024
Young people from BMet and South and City College in Birmingham have gathered in Digbeth today for a tribute to Benjamin Zephaniah.
It's in collaboration with Birmingham Race Impact Group, as part of the "Pass the Baton Anti-Racist Festival," a profound day-long event dedicated to promoting unity and the importance of anti-racism.
The festival is a call to action to empower and educate the next and future generations about equality and justice.
In a united front against racism, the festival included educational workshops, spoken word and musical acts as well as a special tribute to Benjamin Zephaniah.
Jagwant Johal from BRIG said: “The baton we pass on is heavy with the weight of history but carries the lightness of hope. The pass the baton festival symbolises a commitment to a future where diversity is celebrated, and equality is the standard.”
With special emphasis on engaging young individuals between the ages of 16-18 the festival aims not just to educate but also to provide a platform for voices that need to be heard, encouraging a collective step towards a more equitable society.
Approximately 120 young people from BMet, South and City College, and schools across the city attended the event and have been encouraged to sign up up to BRIG Youth to carrying the baton for anti-racism moving forward.
The event has been organised by students at BMet and South and City College as a work experience project.
Pat Carvalho Principal at BMet said: “This event is so important in helping to ensure that the conversation on anti-racism and equity of opportunity continues to take place. This event is igniting a torch of change to be carried through every community, lighting the way for hope and inclusion for all. I am also extremely proud that the event has been organised by our young people for young people.”
Mike Hopkins MBE and Principal at South and City College adds: “This festival stands as a beacon of what we can achieve together for racial harmony and social justice. We are honoured to be part of this event and are extremely pleased that our students have taken the challenge with such gusto to organise the event.”
The festival aims not just to educate but also to provide a platform for voices that need to be heard, encouraging a collective step towards a more equitable society.