The April NW NJPN E-Bulletin looks at responses to the UK Government’s recent report by the Commission on Race and Ethnic Disparities which has been widely criticised by various groups. Readers may wish to compare the report’s finding with the personal experiences documented in the winning essays from the Columban’s competition for schools (featured in the Easter edition of this bulletin). In the light of the recent controversy over a religious studies lesson in Batley, the thorny issue of freedom of speech is tackled by Irish comedian, playwright, journalist, and political satirist Andrew Doyle. Plans for changes to the UK immigration system are challenged by the Boaz Trust alongside a positive report from Manchester-based Migrant Support celebrating their valuable work. Other articles look at climate change, green mining, life on the breadline, local grassroot groups working together to bring about change for the good of all, and the impact of Pope Francis’ recent visit to Iraq. Resources include an inspirational book by Stuart Lawrence ahead of his brother Stephen Lawrence’s annual Memorial Day on 22 April and a short film from the Joseph Rowntree Foundation charting the lives of three working-class women from Doncaster, plus Easter reflections and poems.

Do please pass on to others and sign up for the fortnightly NJPN E-Bulletin which contains a wealth of information and campaign action ideas at: ebulletin@justice-and-peace.org

Anne O’Connor

NW NJPN Justice and Peace E Bulletin April 2021 (1)