Kent Equality Cohesion Council

Category: News

  • First online Holocaust Memorial Day event herald a great success

    First online Holocaust Memorial Day event herald a great success

    First online Holocaust Memorial Day event herald a great success

    Civic, community and faith partners came together to attend an online event to commemorate Holocaust Memorial Day (HMD) on Wednesday January 27th. The event was organised by the Kent Equality Cohesion Council and Cohesion Plus in partnership with Dartford Borough Council.

    The theme for Holocaust Memorial Day this year was “Be the light in the Darkness”, to encourage everyone to reflect on the depths humanity can sink to, but also the ways individuals and communities have resisted that darkness to ‘be the light’ before, during, and after genocide.

    The event featured online presentations by a range of speakers including Gerald Rose from the Catford and Bromley Synagogue, who spoke about the importance of teaching young people the history of the Holocaust. He was followed by Rabi Mati Kirschenbaum from Bromley Reform Synagogue, who talked about how the Holocaust impacted his family, whilst Fiyaz Mughal from Faith Matters emphasised the importance of inter-faith work, and told the story of the “Righteous Muslims” who saved Jewish lives during World War 2.

    Civic contributions were made by Cllr Jeremy Kite MBE the Leader of Dartford Borough Council, Cllr Roger Gough the Leader of Kent County Council, Deputy Chief Constable Tony Blaker, and Deputy Lord Lieutenant Frank Martin.

    Gurvinder Sandher the CEO of Kent Equality Cohesion Council commented, “It is so imperative that we commemorate Holocaust Memorial Day and learn the lessons of history. The whole ethos of our work and our partnership with Dartford Borough Council and local community and faith organisations is for us to all come together and celebrate all that binds us rather than what divides us. As only by standing together can we tackle insidious agendas and viewpoints that seek to de-stabilise our communities.

    Dartford Borough Council Leader Jeremy Kite MBE said, “Holocaust Memorial Day is a powerful reminder of how quickly civilisation can descend into chaos and hatred. Sadly this danger is no less real today than in the past, and it is vital that we unite and stand together in building a more peaceful and tolerant world. The pandemic has shown the value of kindness, tolerance and compassion. It’s a lesson we must never forget.”

  • National Interfaith Week 2020

    National Interfaith Week 2020

    National Interfaith Week 2020

    As part of National Inter Faith Week, in the midst of a pandemic, Kent Equality Cohesion Council worked with local community and faith organisations on this special image. Faiths represented in the image include the Christian, Jewish, Islamic, Hindu and Sikh.

    Gurvinder Sandher CEO of Kent Equality Cohesion Council commented, “Each year we work hard to arrange events for National Inter Faith Week working with local community and faith partners. Unfortunately due to the national lockdown this has not been possible this year. Nonetheless I wanted to mark the week somehow and the result was this image with everyone holding up a sign sharing one of the values of Inter Faith Week. I am grateful to all partners who supported us with this”

  • Online Black History Month Celebrations 2020

    Online Black History Month Celebrations 2020

    Kent Equality Cohesion Council and Cohesion Plus working in partnership with the North Kent Caribbean Network delivered 3 online Black History Month celebrations across Kent covering the districts of Maidstone, Ashford, Folkestone, Margate, Gravesham and Dartford. The celebrations were part funded by The National Lottery Community Fund.

    The first of the events took place across Maidstone and Ashford on 7th October and was delivered in partnership with Ashford BME Association, Black Heritage and local rapper and community activist Fennie. The second event took place on the following week on 14th October across Folkestone and Margate in partnership with Black History Month Folkestone, local artists Randolph Matthews, Lee Desai and Rev Anita McKenzie. The third and final event took place across Gravesham and Dartford on the 21st October and was delivered in partnership with the North Kent Caribbean Network.

    Special messages in support of the celebrations were given across the three events by key partners including the Chief Constable of Kent Police Alan Pughsley and Leader of Kent County Council Cllr Roger Gough amongst others.

    During the course of the events, three individual RoundTable discussions were also recorded and aired which covered topics such as the impact of Covid-19 on local communities, the significance of Black Lives Matters in Kent and the many achievements of the diverse communities across the county.

    Gurvinder Sandher the CEO of Kent Equality Cohesion Council commented, “I am really proud of what we have been able to achieve working in partnership with local community partners across Kent. At a time when the quest for social justice is at the forefront of many people’s minds we felt it was important to not only celebrate Black History Month but also recognise the simple fact that Black History is British History. Only by working together can we unite communities, promote cohesion, tackle extremism and fight social injustices.”

    BHM-evaluation-report
  • Understanding the impact of Covid 19 on the communities of Kent

    Understanding the impact of Covid 19 on the communities of Kent

    Understanding the impact of Covid 19 on the communities of Kent

    The Kent Equality Cohesion Council and Cohesion Plus have today published a report titled “Understanding the impact of Covid 19 on the communities of Kent”. The report was compiled to better understand the complex and differing ways in which Covid 19 has affected the various and diverse communities of the county. The data used in the report was collected via an online survey which went out across Kent through community, faith and organisational networks and had in total 896 overall responses.

    The report aimed to provide a snapshot across the diverse communities of Kent about their experiences with the lockdown and their mind-set as it eases. Looking at national data around the disproportionate impact that Covid 19 had on BAME communities, the report also aimed to better understand the impact of the pandemic on BAME communities in Kent compared to those from British White backgrounds.

    Key findings from the report included:

    • The BAME respondents that said they knew someone who had suffered from Covid 19 was disproportionately higher compared to their British White counterparts

    • When it came to accessing healthcare at hospitals British White respondents were much more confident compared to BAME respondents

    • In terms of going out as lockdown eases, the general consensus was that individuals from a BAME background were less likely to go out

    • When it came to the consumption of culture, there was little appetite across all ethnic groups to attend festivals or visit the theatre

    • Over 2 thirds of respondents said the pandemic had had a negative impact on their mental and physical health

    Gurvinder Sandher, author of the report commented, “This report provides an overview of Covid 19 and the impact it has had, as well as providing insight into the mind-set of the communities of Kent. It is clear from our findings that there has been an adverse impact on BAME communities which needs to be explored further both on a local and national context. The pandemic has undoubtedly been a challenge for everyone. However, it is vital that public sector partners show leadership when it comes to understanding where these complex and nuanced challenges exist. Our hopes are that this report can contribute towards this dialogue. It is important to recognise that BAME communities should not be seen as a homogenous group but rather separate and valid entities with differing experiences, a fact that is sometimes forgotten.”

    Understanding-the-impact-of-Covid-FINAL-REPORT
  • Windrush Community Celebrations takes place online for the first time

    Windrush Community Celebrations takes place online for the first time

    Windrush Community Celebrations takes place online for the first time

    Kent Equality Cohesion Council in partnership with Cohesion Plus and the North Kent Caribbean Network for the first time ever organised a special online event in celebration of the Windrush generation. Poignantly the event took place on Windrush Day and had over 100 local community members in attendance. Civic guests also attended including Deputy Lord Lieutenant Dr Bhagwara Vasudaven, KCC Leader, Mr Roger Gough, KCC Chairman Cllr Graham Gibbens, Mayor of Gravesham Cllr John Caller and Inspector Craig West from Kent Police.

    The event organisers Gurvinder Sandher CEO of Kent Equality Cohesion Council and the Chair of the North Kent Caribbean Network, Michelle Bramble felt this year’s celebrations were more important than ever in the midst of the ongoing Black Lives Matter protests as well as the devastating impact Covid -19 has had on communities from a BAME background.

    Gurvinder Sandher, CEO of KECC commented, “We were incredibly humbled and proud to be able to host the first ever online Windrush celebrations in recognition of the enormously positive contributions made by the Windrush generation and their decedents in the UK. Despite not being able to celebrate in person, we were no less enthused to celebrate with local members of the community and civic guests online. To say we are living in tumultuous times would be something of a painful understatement however, we wanted to champion the Windrush generations and celebrate their achievements especially when history has tended to overlook this. As such, we felt it imperative to take this valuable opportunity to celebrate in the midst of the impact of Covid – 19 which has hit BAME communities disproportionately higher. With the ongoing protests around Black Lives Matter and the widely reported recognition of systemic racism still prevalent in 2020 we will continue to celebrate and champion diversity until true equality is achieved.”

  • Solidarity around the Black Lives Matter campaign

    Solidarity around the Black Lives Matter campaign

    A Statement from Cohesion Plus and the North Kent Caribbean Network on thier event around the Black Lives Matter campaign

    On Thursday 4th June in Gravesend’s Fort Gardens, the Kent Equality Cohesion Council, North Kent Caribbean Network and Cohesion Plus organised an event for a limited, invited number of community members to come together with the appropriate social distancing measures in place, to show our support for the diverse communities as well as remember and reflect on the tragic killing of George Flyod at the hand of American police officers in Minneapolis.

    We are incredibly grateful and proud that the Chief Constable of Kent Alan Pughsley and colleagues attended to show solidarity with the members of the community that were invited to attend. It is important and necessary at this time that strong leadership is shown and that we remind others to call out social injustices where they exist.

    All our work is about diverse communities coming together as we passionately believe that there is more that unites us than divides us. We were very heartened by the positive response to this issue by Kent Police and other partners and we think it is imperative that those who believe in equality, human civil rights and justice stand up, and speak out on this vital issue. It is our inherent duty and responsibility to educate and contribute towards a progressive society to ensure there is fairness and equality for all as well as future generations. The Chief Constable and his team helped us take that vital step on the 4th June by taking a knee, a symbol that speaks of humility and respect – not submission or surrender.

    The response on the whole has been very positive, with members from the community inspired and comforted at a time, which has in many areas led to violence and conflict. This, added to impact that COVID-19 has had on BAME communities means that we need inspirational leaders to show their solidarity and support for the diverse communities within the County.

    It is however with great sadness that we have witnessed several sensationalised, negative and bias articles in both our local and national press that we feel need to write this statement. We advocate the need for ongoing conversations about race, social inequalities and injustice and the media coverage so far shows just how much work we still have to do. We will continue to strive towards our goal of social and racial equality because it is the moral, responsible and right thing to do.

    We cannot right the wrongs of the past, but we can help to build a better future. We hope that by joining our voices to this vital cause we can raise awareness and address racism at its root by continuing to have conversations at home, in our workplaces and schools. We strongly believe that there is more that unites us than divides and that as communities, we are stronger when we work together.

    Gurvinder Sandher
    CEO of Kent Equality Cohesion Council
    Artistic Director of Cohesion Plus

    Michelle Bramble
    Chair of North Kent Caribbean Network

  • Community Support

    Community Support

    Community Support

    Kent Equality Cohesion Council and North Kent Caribbean Network organised for community members to come together with the appropriate social distance measures in place to remember and reflect on the tragic killing of George Floyd at the hands of American police officers in Minneapolis. With the Black Lives Matter movement spreading globally the short event provided an opportunity for those attending to gather for a moment of silence and the symbolic taking of the knee as a sign of solidarity.

    Gurvinder Sandher, CEO of Kent Equality Cohesion Council commented “Over the last few days we have been contacted by key community partners and colleagues in relation to how we could show solidarity and support for the Black Lives Matter movement. We felt, as an organisation that strives to fight discrimination and unite diverse communities that it was our responsibility to recognise the racism that is still present in our society and condemn it in the strongest way. We hope that by joining our voices to this vital cause we can raise awareness and address racism at its root by continuing to have conversations at home, in our work places and schools.”

    Michelle Bramble, Chair of the North Kent Caribbean Network who addressed the event said, “This case in particular has hit us hard. How many times do we have to hear the words ‘I can’t breathe’ before people begin to accept that all lives don’t matter until black lives matter. The responsibility lies with everyone, not just people of colour so I’m asking everyone to educate themselves, have a conversation and more importantly challenge racist behaviour with the support of our community partners. The pandemic has changed the way the world works forever, as has the killing of George Floyd and countless others who did not go viral. We cannot go back to how things were before.”

    According to Alan Pughsley the Chief Constable for Kent who was also in attendance “It was important to me for us to take part in this show of solidarity. We at Kent Police stand with all those who are horrified at the manner in which George Floyd lost his life. It is right there is accountability and justice should follow”

    “I am fortunate to lead a Force whose officers share my passion and pride in policing. I am extremely proud of this and our communities can be confident we listen, we work with them to solve problems and we are accountable for the service we provide. We are never complacent and always strive to be better.”

  • Prominent figure in the Sikh community loses battle with cancer

    Prominent figure in the Sikh community loses battle with cancer

    Prominent figure in the Sikh community loses battle with cancer

    Tributes have poured in from around the world for Makhan Singh Johal, one of the most well-respected and prominent figures in the Sikh community in Gravesend. He sadly passed away at the age of 64 after a long battle with cancer.

    Makhan arrived in Gravesend in 1975 and along with running a number of local successful businesses, he was best known for his contribution to the local arts and sports scene gaining worldwide recognition. During the course of his prolific singing career, spanning over 35 years, he performed with Jugnu Bhangra Group, Rooh Punjab Dee and Four by Four Bhangra at events around the world, entertaining thousands with his powerful voice and onstage personality.

    Makhan was also well known for the positive contribution he made to the Guru Nanak Kabbadi Club where he played the Punjabi sport for many years both in the UK and abroad. In latter years he was an active member of management for the Guru Nanak Darbar Gurdwara in Gravesend where he served the community selflessly for many years. Makhan also focused his energy on supporting the underprivileged in Punjab, North India where he was born. This included regular free eye camps and drop in sessions around cancer awareness as well as creating a free gym and boxing club which supported females across all ages.

    Gurvinder Sandher CEO of the Kent Equality Cohesion Council, “I was very saddened to hear of the passing of Makhan Singh Johal, someone who I had the honour of knowing for many years and who was an avid supporter of our work. He was a much loved figure who was very well known within the Sikh community not just in the UK but around the world. This is underlined by the fact that since his passing tributes have poured in globally from artists within the Punjabi music industry to members of the local community whose hearts he touched. He will be dearly missed by the community but we will find solace in the fact that his legacy lives on in his family and within the cultural and sports scene in Gravesham to which he contributed so greatly to.”

  • Virtual Saint George’s Day Celebrations 2020

    Virtual Saint George’s Day Celebrations 2020

    Virtual Saint George’s Day Celebrations 2020

    Despite the Covid-19 pandemic Cohesion Plus working in partnership with Kent Equality Cohesion Council, Dartford Borough Council and Gravesham Borough Council arranged a series of activities as part of virtual Saint George’s Day celebrations which took place on April 23rd. The centre piece was a short film with a message about staying safe and supporting the NHS. The film was produced by Cohesion Plus and featured a range of local diverse artists such as Bill Singh and Lucky Moyo as well as community and public sector partners including the leaders of the Gravesham and Dartford Borough Councils and Chief Constable of Kent Police Alan Pughsley QPM.

    In addition to the film there were a range of online activities including creative arts activities, sessions on how to make bunting and photo collages, quizzes as well as the sharing of some of the memorable moments from Saint George’s Day festivals over the past decade. A highlight was the virtual flag raising ceremonies.

    Gurvinder Sandher, Artistic Director of Cohesion Plus commented, “These are extraordinary times we find ourselves in with the ongoing pandemic. The impact of Covid-19 has been felt far and wide and in so many complex and distressing ways. I am therefore very pleased that working with local partners and Arts Council England we have been able to pull together virtual Saint George’s Day celebrations. Now more than ever we need to celebrate all that binds us together regardless of ethnicity, background or faith”

  • ITV Meridian

    ITV Meridian

    ITV Meridian

    KECC in recent weeks have been working with local community and faith organisations to support those who have been left stranded in Northern India following the recent outbreak of the Covid – 19 pandemic. Below is a link to a news feature which was aired on ITV Meridan on Friday 17th April and features the CEO of KECC Gurvinder Sandher.

    News feature 17thApril

    Click here