Showcase of anti-racism work
Sunderland schoolchildren brought literature and music together to celebrate cultural diversity in the city.
Pupils from eight Sunderland schools took part in a day of music and dancing.
Students from the six primaries and two secondaries have been studying the book Heartstone Odyssey by Arvan Kumar, a story which deals with the issue of racism in a serious yet magical way.
The students have also been discussing ways to tackle the issues of racism and discrimination.
Students from all the schools taking part, Barnes Junior, Diamond Hall Junior, Hudson Road Primary, St Joseph’s Primary, St Mary’s Primary, Valley Road Primary, Southmoor Academy and Thornhill Academy, all came together to take part in a celebration event at Hope Street Xchange in the city’s Hind Street.
The youngsters were able to share their ideas and enjoy music, Bollywood and African tribal dancing, and a range of activities celebrating cultures from across the world.
The morning session was opened by Mayor of Sunderland, Coun Lynda Scanlan, and the afternoon session was opened by the Deputy Mayor, Coun David Snowdon.
During the day, Rebecca Young, aka This Little Bird, sang a selection of international folk songs for the children. Students from Sunderland College were also on hand to perform a selection of dances from Bollywood to African tribal dance.
And, members of community group Young Asian Voices talking to pupils about their part in city life and demonstrating glitter henna body art on the children’s hands.
Coun Scanlan said: “I was delighted to have been invited to open this important event, showcasing the work young people are doing in our schools to address the issues raised in the Heartstone Odyssey such as racism, prejudice and discrimination.
“Classes have been using the book to discuss how this impacts on people’s lives through intolerance causing things like hate crimes, and look at ways that we can all work together to overcome them by highlighting the importance of diversity and mutual respect.
“Some of the fantastic multi-cultural music and dance throughout the day demonstrated one way how this might be achieved, while also showcasing the range of talent we have across the whole community here in Sunderland.”
Coun Snowdon added: “It’s important that we all recognise and respect difference within our communities whether it’s cultural, faith, backgrounds, ages or gender.”