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UK
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Written by Kennedy
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Sunday, 14 September 2008 21:00 |
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“If we want to create change then we all have a role to play” Kwame Kwei-Armah
The respected actor and playwright Kwame Kwei-Armah has spoken out in favour of a new initiative to raise the aspirations of Black boys and young Black men.
Speaking about the REACH programme, he said: “We all know about the issues facing Black boys and young Black men in Britain today. But if we want to create change then everyone in our community has a role to play. Black men must stand up and act as positive role models, telling their stories and showing young people that there is a path to success and achievement”.
One of the first planks of REACH is a national role model programme. REACH is putting together a group of 20 inspirational Black men who will be champions for the next generation.
Clive Lewis, Chair of REACH, said: “The REACH programme offers an opportunity to significantly enhance the community’s offer to our young people. We are working towards a society where every Black boy and young Black men can fulfil his potential”.
Tim Campbell, winner of The Apprentice (2005) who is serving on the REACH recruitment panel, added: “It’s about making a difference. That is what we are here for, and as Barack Obama says, it’s about change. Let’s make the change happen today”.
In addition to the Role Model programme, REACH has several other objectives and initiatives. These include creating stronger links between Black families and schools; improving reporting on race equality work in schools; and encouraging Black community and voluntary organisations who are already working to similar objectives to share resources and expertise, so they can achieve more.
The REACH initiative has been developed, shaped and run by the people who know about the problems young Black men face – the Black community itself. For this reason, say many commentators, it has a better chance of working, and deserves to be a success.
The REACH Role Model programme is just the first step in creating change. Ken Barnes, the author of The Seven Principles of RESPECTisms, who is involved in advising the Government on the REACH programme, says he has seen change happen first hand. “By bringing in role models from the Black community, such as doctors and lawyers, we can expand young people’s horizons and open their minds. Just one person can produce a change that can last your whole lifetime”.
To find out more about the REACH programme, visit www.direct.gov.uk/reach
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