Nagalro Anti Racist Statement

There can be no conceivable justification for the killing, by slow asphyxia, of George Floyd, who was handcuffed at the time of his death.  The protests across the world reflect the huge anger and injustice felt by people and reminds us all that racism is not isolated to a single jurisdiction and that its roots run deep in societies and institutions everywhere.  Many Nagalro members are from Black, Asian and minority ethnic backgrounds and have experienced racism directly or indirectly.  They would have identified with the Black Lives Matter movement at a personal level.  Although racism directly affects Black, Asian and minority ethnic people, it blights the whole of society and we all have a role to play in eradicating it.  People from nations and communities the world over have been deeply affected by this horrific event, and the impact of their response has been uplifting.

Nagalro does not hesitate to make clear its active support for all Black, Asian and ethnic minorities across the globe in their fight against racism.  In making such commitment we acknowledge both the pain of racism and the work necessary to eradicate it.  The challenge for those of us from the white majority culture, is to actively question and challenge a system of unchecked inbuilt privilege, and to bring about positive change for families in all our communities.

Nagalro recognises its role in eradicating racism and that words alone will not suffice where action is required.  Nagalro reaffirms its commitment to anti-racist practice and we pledge to purposefully identify, debate and challenge issues of racism and the impact racism has on our association and the people we serve.  We will challenge ourselves to understand and correct any inequities that exist and gain a better understanding of ourselves during this purposeful process.

Nagalro promotes high standards of professional practice in social work.  Our members work with children who have experienced abuse and discrimination in many forms including racism.  We will support our members who are instrumental in ensuring children’s voices are heard at a crucial time when decisions are made that have lifelong implications for them.

Nagalro has already developed equal opportunities policies to confront the inequalities that may exist within Nagalro and in its dealings with its members and other organisations.  We will further develop anti-racist policies and update them regularly to meet the developing needs of our members.  Most importantly, Nagalro will work to ensure that the voices of children from Black, Asian and minority ethnic communities must be heard in decision-making.  Nagalro will work to raise awareness of the particular needs of Black, Asian and minority ethnic children through its educative resources, via its publications, training programs and conferences. 

15 July 2020