Neuchâtel canton stages anti-racism campaign (SACR) from 18 to 30 March 2018
Every year since 1995, the Service de la cohésion multiculturelle (the Multicultural Cohesion Service) and the Forum tous différents tous égaux (All Different-All Equal Forum) have organised an event around 21 March, which has been designated International Day against Racism. In the last three years, fresh impetus has been given to this event with three objectives:
- expanding geographic coverage;
- increasing the number and variety of partners;
- diversifying the target audiences.
In order to achieve its goals, a steering committee was set up with a representative from the voluntary sector, a representative from local government, leisure centres and civil society, so that everyone can work within their own network to raise awareness of the SACR and/or build synergies and/or interact with other partners.
Last year, the SACR focused on how to live with multiple identities in a diverse society: ‟I am. You are. We are. I have the right to be me”. The campaign brought together 29 Neuchâtel partners, institutions and associations, which put on 33 events, talks, exhibitions, films, street and youth-related activities. In total, more than 4,000 people took part in the SACR activities, in addition to the 3,500 people who attended the Festival du sud film festival.
The work of the SACR continues in 2018 on the topic of ‟Racism yesterday and today”, with the same goals of extending the reach of the campaign, and with priority being given to youth through talks/lectures and sport. More than 70 events are being staged by over 60 partners.
Each year, an activity report with a qualitative and quantitative assessment is prepared.
In 2017, the campaign attracted extensive support from the local voluntary sector, including migrants’ associations and other community groups. In 2018, the campaign attracted even more interest, with cultural institutions and the municipalities playing an active part. The vast majority of the canton’s libraries took part by offering a selection of books and holding exhibitions. The canton’s two main bookshops are also partners and, as well as making book suggestions, gave extensive coverage to the campaign including through their window displays.
Associations defending migrants’ rights and migrant organisations organised street events (forum theatres) to raise public awareness. Some 20 events were also staged in schools. The football association has rallied round too and is organising a major tournament.
Video interview (in French)
