Locals are urged to wear red to help combat racism

Callum Lavery 

NORTHSIDERS are being encouraged to wear red this November to help combat racism. 

From schools and community councils to sports clubs and businesses, everyone is asked to take part in the third annual Wear Red Day. 

The event, organised by Show Racism the Red Card (SRTRC), is asking the public to wear something red on Friday, November 23 and to raise money for the anti-racism and education charity.

Founder and director of SRTRC, Garrett Mullan, said the event is an awareness and fundraising day to educate young people on racism.

“We need to equip children and adults alike with the knowledge and skills to address and deal with racism,” said Mr Mullan, who lives in Balbriggan.

“People can do it as part of groups or as individuals. It’s to make a statement about racism. 

“Racism is an issue. It’s an issue for some of the young people that we meet in schools so we try to encourage young people to report it so teachers can do things about it. “The Wear Red Day is an opportunity for people to, wherever they are, say no to racism and to show solidarity for those who experience it and show support for our work.” According to European Network Against Racism Ireland, in 2017, there were 595 incidents of racism reported through their iReport system. So far in 2018, 572 reports have been made. 

Events have been organised across the county from fundraisers like keepie-uppie competitions and bake sales to the SIPTU headquarters and Lord Mayor’s mansion being lit up red in solidarity. 

In Fingal, 20 community centres will be participating, while Dublin City Council is calling on its staff to wear red on the day. Twenty-five schools and 15 other groups in the area will also be participating. 

David Nutley of Baldoyle United is more than happy to take part in the event.

“I think it’s a really important campaign,” Mr Nutley told Northside People. 

“While I don’t think we have a major problem with racism in the club, I think it is important to educate the kids and the parents involved in the club. There is no room for racism in sport. I feel the message is getting through to particularly the younger teenagers and parents at the club. I think it is a very worthwhile campaign that we are happy to support.”

All funds raised through the event will be used by the charity to provide educational resources, programmes and intercultural activities that support integration. 

Last year 5,700 school children participated in educational workshops organised by the charity across the country. 

•To donate €2 to the charity, text SRTRC to 50300. For further information on how to get involved, email: info@theredcard.ie.