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The National Youth Agency: Comment - Mentioned in dispatches

1 min read
I watched an interesting programme the other night, focusing on community integration. It took some of the classic words from Enoch Powell, 1968, and then illustrated them with examples of how those themes had come to fruition. While the programme was interesting, it puzzled me.

Why did it appear to suggest that it was odd for young people born in Britain to be interested in their roots in other countries? Why was the focus on black and minority ethnic young people? What has happened to the dimensions of class, including the reality of poverty? Also, is it only men from black and minority ethnic communities who have a voice? I found myself becoming increasingly irritated.

Identity is layered - this is a good thing. Those of us who care about young people understand the richness of their past, present and future. Programmes such as Young Roots support young people to explore their past as a means of understanding their present and determining their future. Hopefully the cultural offer will increase these opportunities for all, including those young people whose heritage lies in other countries, be it Ireland or Pakistan.

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