Kent Equality Cohesion Council

Category: News

  • Maidstone Welcomes the Year of the Snake with Vibrant Lunar New Year Celebrations

    Maidstone Welcomes the Year of the Snake with Vibrant Lunar New Year Celebrations

    Maidstone Welcomes the Year of the Snake with Vibrant Lunar New Year Celebrations

    Maidstone marked the arrival of the Year of the Snake with a spectacular Lunar New Year celebration on Saturday 1st February. The Lunar New Year, also known as the Chinese New Year or Spring Festival, is the most significant traditional celebration for many East and Southeast Asian cultures. It signifies the start of the lunar calendar year and is typically observed with family reunions, feasts, and cultural traditions aimed at bringing good luck, health, and prosperity for the year ahead.

    The event, produced by Cohesion Plus and Kent Equality Council in partnership with the Maidstone Cultural Group and Maidstone Borough Council, brought together communities to celebrate this important occasion.

    The festivities commenced on Jubilee Square with a traditional ‘Dotting of the Eyes’ ceremony, a symbolic ritual that awakens the Dancing Lions. The ceremony was led by Michael Lam, a member of the Maidstone Cultural Group and a local business owner, alongside Gurvinder Sandher MBE DL, CEO of Kent Equality Cohesion Council. They were joined by special guests, including Deputy Lieutenant of Kent Andrew Wood and Mayor of Maidstone Cllr John Perry.

    Following the ceremony, the Dancing Lions took centre stage, captivating the crowds with their energetic and mesmerizing movements. The artistic program continued with a range of performances, including the SOAS Chinese Music Ensemble, who enchanted audiences with traditional Shanghai Tea Room melodies, and award-winning dancer Zihan Liu, who delivered a series of exquisite performances inspired by Chinese theatre.

  • Dev Sharma MBE Chair of Kent Equality Cohesion Council 1940-2024

    Dev Sharma MBE Chair of Kent Equality Cohesion Council 1940-2024

    Dev Sharma MBE Chair of Kent Equality Cohesion Council 1940-2024

    It is with great sadness that Kent Equality Cohesion Council announces the passing of its Chair Dev Sharma MBE following a short illness.

    Dev worked tirelessly in the community since the 1970’s promoting community cohesion and assisting victims of racial harassment. This work led him in helping to establish the Dartford and District Racial Equality Council in 1990 working with like-minded members from the local community including the Chair Darshan Singh Sandhu MBE.

    His vision and dedication then led to the expansion of this work beyond Dartford and the establishment of the North West Kent Racial Equality Council in 1999, further amplifying his lifelong commitment to justice and fairness. An organisation he continued to lead until his retirement in 2010.

    In the period prior to the publication of the Macpherson Report in 1999, work around equality and diversity was incredibly rare with limited funding and overall lack of visibility in the charity sector. In this respect, Dev was a trailblazer, championing partnership working between the public sector and the community sector and seeking opportunities to bring communities together to celebrate what unites rather than divides. Dev established long term partnerships with Dartford Borough Council, Kent County Council, Gravesham Borough Council and Kent Police which still remain strong today.

    In 2006, Dev’s extraordinary contributions to the community were recognized when he was awarded an MBE by Her Majesty the Queen. Even after retiring in 2010, his legacy continued to inspire those dedicated to promoting equality and understanding.

    Dev’s service extended beyond racial equality. As an active member of Lions Club International, he demonstrated an unwavering dedication to humanitarian causes, embodying the spirit of selfless service and leadership.

    Following his retirement in 2010 he was elected Chair of the newly formed Kent Equality Cohesion Council, a role he performed with great distinction against the backdrop of raising community tensions and challenging economic outlook.

    Gurvinder Sandher MBE DL “I am deeply saddened by the passing of not just a colleague and mentor, but also my dear friend. I had the great pleasure of working closely with Dev since 1999 and learnt so much from him over the years. He was an inspirational leader and someone who was always willing to help others. I am incredibly grateful that, even after his retirement, Dev remained on hand to guide me through countless challenges and was with me during all the successes. Dev Sharma MBE leaves behind a profound legacy of compassion, advocacy and service. He will be deeply missed, but his contributions will continue to shape the communities he so passionately served in North Kent and the Kent Equality Cohesion Council that he led for so many years. I will miss his guidance and friendship.”

  • Inter Faith Reception

    Inter Faith Reception

    Inter Faith Reception

    HM Lord-Lieutenant of Kent, Lady Colgrain hosted the first Inter Faith Reception with support from Deputy Lieutenant Gurvinder Sandher MBE and the Kent Equality Cohesion Council. The reception took place on Monday 11th November and looked to bring faith and community representatives together from across the county.

    In total 20 faith representatives attended the reception at County Hall in Maidstone where the Chairman of KCC, Byran Sweetland very kindly provided the use of his rooms. Each representative had the opportunity to speak with the Lord-Lieutenant Lady Colgrain around their experiences and the work being done with their congregations as well as their local communities. The reception also provided an opportunity for those in attendance to learn from their peers and promote positive relationships between faith groups in the county.

    Gurvinder Sandher MBE DL, CEO of KECC commented, “We are very lucky to enjoy such strong relationships across faiths and communities here in Kent and the purpose of this reception was to build upon those relationships and reaffirm our partnership. It also provided an opportunity for open discourse as well as to celebrate our unity. I am incredibly grateful to the faith representatives that took the time to attend and support the initiative. Work of this nature is only as successful as the buy in received from partners and I am glad that they had an opportunity to attend and speak with the Lord-Lieutenant who I know was moved by the work being done. We hope the success of the reception spurs on future Inter Faith activity working alongside the Kent Lieutenancy.”

  • Gravesham Diwali Celebrations brings community together

    Gravesham Diwali Celebrations brings community together

    Gravesham Diwali Celebrations brings community together

    Kent Equality Cohesion Council supported by Cohesion Plus once again produced community celebrations for Diwali on Friday 8th November to mark the Festival of Light. The event which took place at Saint George’s Church Hall was attended by over 100 guests and saw a spectacular evening of music, food and dance.

    The aim of the event was to bring members of the local community together with a particular focus on elders who wouldn’t necessarily have the opportunity to celebrate in a social setting often due to isolation and ill-health.

    There was a short programme of entertainment provided by Four by Four Bhangra Youth Club Kings of Dhol and DJ Replay as well as a full Indian buffet dinner.

    Gurvinder Sandher MBE DL, CEO of KECC commented, “We are so pleased to have been able to deliver Diwali celebrations once again in Gravesham celebrating the triumph of light over darkness. This year was extra special in that this event was particularly focused on our community elders, providing them an opportunity to come out and celebrate Diwali in a social setting. We are eternally grateful to everyone who took the time to support our work and we look forward to delivering more community celebrations in the future.”

  • Wrotham Festival of Light brings colour for another year

    Wrotham Festival of Light brings colour for another year

    Wrotham Festival of Light brings colour for another year

    The coming of another autumn marked the return of the annual and much loved Wrotham Festival of Light on Friday 11th October. The festival, which every year attracts hundreds of attendees from the local village and surrounding areas is now in its 11th year is still popular as ever.

    The event was organised in partnership by Cohesion Plus, Kent Equality Cohesion Council, Saint Georges Primary School and Same Sky Arts. It was supported by Arts Council England and Wrotham Parish Council.

    The village was transformed with an array of colourful light installations around the theme of wildlife which attendees were able to interact and take photos with. The main attraction was the vibrant lantern parade which featured musical acts such as the Kings of Dhol, internationally renowned Dhol drumming troupe who are experts in the percussion which hails from North India as well as Bloco Fogo Samba who brought the sounds of the Brazilian carnival to the celebrations.

    The crowds were also entertained by The Charlie Chaplin Show, a popular street act hailing from Covent Garden and usually performed on the South Bank circuit.

    The lantern parade was led by the Mayor of Tonbridge and Malling Cllr Steve Hammond and Deputy Lieutenant Louise Bryant and the Headteacher of Saint George’s Primary School Wrotham Elizabeth Rye. They were followed by hundreds of children parents and guardians as the parade made its way up from the Saint George’s Church to the cricket ground. Once at the cricket ground there was spectacular fireworks display provided by local business Phoenix Fireworks which drew loud applause from those in attendance.

    Gurvinder Sandher MBE DL the CEO of Kent Equality Cohesion Council commented “I am so proud of what we were able to achieve working in partnership. As a nation we have had a testing few months with the riots in the summer a recent memory. Events like this show what can be achieved when we all work together for the better good and celebrate what unites us rather than divides us. I am proud of how the Wrotham Festival of Light has developed over the years and how many local residents come out to support it every year regardless of age, background or faith.”

  • Dartford Black History Month Celebrations 2024

    Dartford Black History Month Celebrations 2024

    Dartford Black History Month Celebrations 2024

    Cohesion Plus and Kent Equality Cohesion Council working in partnership with Dartford Borough Council produced a community celebration for Black History Month on Wednesday 2nd October. The event was supported by Arts Council England and took place at the Orchard West Theatre.

    The event was part of a month long programme celebrating the achievements and accomplishments of the Black diaspora in the UK with this year’s theme “Reclaiming Narrative.” Civic guests included Cllr Jeremy Kite, Leader of Dartford Borough Council, Mayor of Dartford Cllr Andy Lloyd, Jim Dickson MP along with Gurvinder Sandher Deputy Lieutenant of Kent.

    The evening featured a range of guest speakers including Akua Agyepong, Director of Adult Social Care at KCC and Naomi Benjamin, founder of Medway based CIC The Sewin Project. The speakers spoke about their individual journeys and how being Black and British shaped their identifies and life paths.

    There was also a screening of the a Cohesion Plus produced film detailing the story of local resident and baker Dela Oresanwo who despite great trials and tribulations, runs a successful home baking business bringing joy to her customers.

    Uzambezi, a Zimbabwean dance and music troupe performed traditional songs and choreography throughout the evening, wowing guests with their interactive numbers.

    Local micro businesses were also showcased on the night, ranging from natural beauty products, soaps and jewellery as well as Afro-Caribbean groceries, brands and ingredients. Guests were able to also try Afro-Caribbean cuisine provided by Jerk on the Hill as well as delicious home backed desserts provided by Dela Homebakes.

    Gurvinder Sandher MBE DL, CEO of Kent Equality Cohesion Council commented, “I am proud of what we were able to achieve working with Dartford Borough Council. Our work in the borough celebrates its diversity and the shared history of residents regardless of background 12 months of the year, during Black History Month we just amp up this work as we believe strongly that Black History is British History and it needs to be celebrated across the year not just in October.”

  • Down pours couldn’t stop the magic of Maidstone Community Mela

    Down pours couldn’t stop the magic of Maidstone Community Mela

    Down pours couldn’t stop the magic of Maidstone Community Mela

    Kent Equality Cohesion Council once again supported the Maidstone Community Mela working in partnership with Cohesion Plus, Maidstone Cultural Group and community partners. The Mela which took place on Sunday 8th September in Mote Park once again played host to the diverse communities of the County Town welcoming all to enjoy a day of culturally diverse entertainment.

    Despite the heavy downpours those in attendance were able to enjoy a free artistic programme of performances from community led arts and dance groups. The offstage offering was just as exciting with an array of food from all around the world as well as information stands from local charities, community groups as well as Unison and Maidstone Borough Council. There was also entertainment and free music workshops for 0-3 year olds delivered by Playground Project.

    The Mayor of Maidstone Cllr John Perry and Deputy Lieutenant of Kent Victoria Wallace attended the festivities and warmly welcomed those in attendance. They spoke about the importance of celebrating diversity and the arts and wished those who had braved the weather a great day.

    Community Mela Producer Gurvinder Sandher MBE DL said: “Despite the wet weather we are so pleased to have delivered the Mela this year working with local businesses, community groups and residents. The Mela continues to be a vessel toward greater understanding of one another, promoting community cohesion and celebrating all that brings us together regardless of ethnicity, social background and faith. As always we are incredibly grateful to our partners who work tirelessly to support our work.”

  • Vaisakhi 2024

    Vaisakhi 2024

    Vaisakhi 2024

    The CEO of KECC was delighted to attend the 2024 Vaisakhi celebrations in his capacity as Deputy Lieutenant on behalf of the Lord Lieutenant Lady Colgrain who is His Majesty the King’s representative for Kent.

    The festivities took place on Saturday 13th April in Gravesham and were attended by thousands from all over Kent and further afield. Organised and delivered by Gravesend Guru Nanak Darbar Gurdwara, the annual festivities celebrate the founding of the Sikh faith and are the biggest in the south of England.

    Gurvinder Sandher MBE DL, CEO of KECC commented, “It was an absolute honour to be invited to attend this year’s Vaisakhi celebrations in my hometown, especially in my capacity as Deputy Lieutenant. This time of year is a special one and incredibly important to myself and all Sikhs around the world. I would like to thank all the countless volunteers who dedicated their free time to make this year’s celebrations some of the best yet.

  • Archbishop of Canterbury hosts KECC at Community Regeneration Event

    Archbishop of Canterbury hosts KECC at Community Regeneration Event

    Archbishop of Canterbury hosts KECC at Community Regeneration Event

    The Archbishop of Canterbury hosted a special Collaboration for Community Regeneration and Growth event to which KECC’s Gurvinder Sandher MBE DL was invited to attend. The event took place on Tuesday 26th March in Maidstone and was also attended by the Lord Lieutenant of Kent Lady Colgrain, Mayor of Maidstone Cllr Gordon Newton and KCC Chair Cllr Gary Wood.

    The event was an opportunity for key figures in the county to come together and highlight the positive community work taking place in their boroughs and to discuss ways in which further work could be done by fostering new partnerships and relationships for the overall benefit of Kent.

    Gurvinder Sandher MBE DL, CEO of KECC commented, “It was a great honour to be invited and have an opportunity to talk to the Archbishop about community cohesion and the work we do across the county, breaking down perceived barriers and celebrating cultural differences as well as shared common values.”

  • Asian women’s Group Xmas Lunch

    Asian women’s Group Xmas Lunch

    Asian women’s Group Xmas Lunch

    Kent Equality Cohesion Council worked in partnership with the Asian Woman’s Group to arrange a special community luncheon which took place on Thursday 14 December at the Taste of Punjab.

    Along with the group members the Mayor of Gravesend Cllr Gurdip Bungar, the Mayoress Mrs Bungar and the CEO of KECC Gurvinder Sandher MBE DL were in attendance.

    The average age of the Asian Women’s Group is 70 plus and they deliver a range of community activity including weekly fitness and yoga classes. They also arrange regular trips to places of interest and participate in community activity across Gravesham. The Group provides vital social interaction for the women many of whom are widows and limited English language skills.

    Gurvinder Sandher MBE DL, CEO of KECC commented, “We are always so proud to support the Asian Woman’s’ Group who have been doing some excellent work over many years to raise awareness around fitness, well-being and community. We have been their champions for some time and applaud their hard work and commitment to their members. I know the ladies benefit immensely from the sense of community and access to physical activity tailored to their fitness and abilities. We will continue to support their work here in Gravesend and look to them as an outstanding example of community led initiatives.”