L-R: UNISON regional organiser Lynne Hackett , Cardiff Councillor Julie Sangani, UNISON branch secretary Emma Garson, Cardiff council leader Cllr HuwThomas, Cardiff Councillor Chris Weaver and Cardiff Council chief executive, Paul Orders.
Cardiff Council has officially signed UNISON’s anti-racism charter.
Local authority leader Cllr Huw Thomas and Cardiff Council chief executive Paul Orders endorsed the charter which highlights a dedication to combatting racial discrimination in the workplace.
The news comes ahead of a UNISON backed march against racism which starts at 11am on Sunday (17 March) at the Senedd in Cardiff Bay.
Click here to view UNISON’s anti-racism charter.
UNISON Cardiff county branch Black members officer Kemba Hadaway-Morgan said: “UNISON has 185,000 Black members, most of whom work in health and local government services with significant numbers working in social care and schools. Many deliver frontline services, and many are low paid.
“As a Black member of UNISON and as the Black members officer in my branch, Cardiff county, I am pleased that the council in the capital city of Wales has seen the importance and necessity of signing up to UNISON’s anti-racism charter.
“I look forward to working with the council to ensure the full aims and objectives of the charter can be realised.”
UNISON Cardiff county branch secretary Emma Richards said: “As part of Cardiff county’s commitment to improving working conditions for Black Members, UNISON Cardiff county local government branch has worked with council leaders to make Cardiff one of the first local authorities in Wales to sign up to UNISON’s anti-racism charter.”
UNISON Cymru/Wales equalities lead and regional organiser Calvin Smeda said: “With Cardiff having one of the oldest and most diverse communities in the UK, it is important for Cardiff Council to show commitment to equality, and social justice.
“It also sends a strong message that they will be dedicated to confronting discrimination and prejudice head-on.
“Leading by example is not just a suggestion; it is a necessity. In our communities that we serve, we must embody the values we champion.
“Words, actions, and policies should reflect our dedication to creating a more inclusive society.
“Let our actions be a hope to others, that racism has no place in our world.”
