A new dvd, the first of its kind in NI tackling the issue of racism is being launched today through a partnership between Craigavon police, Craigavon Community Safety Partnership, the DPP and Craigavon Borough Council.
The hard hitting dvd will aid police officers and professionals in both community safety and youth services educating and informing young people and community groups in an effective manner on hate crime.
Craigavon Area Commander Chief Inspector Pauline Shields said that the initiative is aimed at reducing the number of victims of racist incidents through education and discussion.
"Police take racist incidents very seriously and are firmly committed to carrying out thorough investigations into all reported incidents. We are aware of the traumatic impact such incidents, which range from verbal abuse to houses being attacked, have on victims. While reported racist crime is down a third on the same period last year, my officers are committed to continuing to work to prevent any type of hate crime. I believe this educational dvd will have positive impact on all who see it".
"Community Safety continues to lead the way in tackling these issues with our partners" says Sarah Wilson Community Safety Officer, "The dvd has three scenarios showing every day situations, which initially start out as "fun" but has some very serious consequences".
The first scenario features young people going into a restaurant and belittling the menu. The second shows young people breaking a window "for a laugh", and the third shows young people in a cell facing up to the consequences of their actions.
The DVD comes with an additional resource of outlined key message for debate in the classroom in order to challenge attitudes in a "safe" environment and discuss potential positive options. "Young people don't want lectures," concludes the Mayor of Craigavon Councillor Robert Smith who is also Chair of the CCSP and DPP, "this dvd is made in such a way to grab their attention. It shows teenagers that they have options and these options have consequences".
If people are interested in receiving training together with the dvd they can contact either Craigavon Community Safety Partnership on 028 38 312 529 or PSNI Community Safety on 0845 600 8000
The dvd uses local actors, scenes and bands throughout the production and was produced by Inferno Productions.
The trailer for this DVD can be viewed through the following link: www.bulb.tv/racismruinslives
- Launch Invitation (.pdf)
