Marginalised Communities

BRITAIN’S INCREASINGLY DIVERSE SOCIETY

 

Britain is becoming an increasingly diverse society. This can be seen as a positive step towards a greater understanding and mixing of different cultures into our own. On the other hand, this also raises issues as to whether these communities should adopt British values and customs and as a result, risk losing their own identity.

Is it a case that they should adapt or vice versa?

 

Everyone has the right to practice his or her own religion, beliefs and cultural values. Britain is a country that welcomes foreigners legally, to pursue a new life that happily allows them to put into practice elements of their old life. At the same time, should there be a balance? Do communities need to consider, for example learning the English language? Respecting the current laws and have an understanding of the British culture and society?

 

To further understand different cultures in our society it is important to identify all the communities. The Media could start by communicating and portraying them in a positive light so that we learn about their culture and beliefs. Literature and theatres could base plays around ethnic minorities teaching values and local communities. This could generate interest, bringing knowledge of cultural diversities.

 

 

Through this, we are challenged and exposed to social taboos, points of view from communities, developments regarding the communities and their wellbeing, which can lead to debates and discussions.

 

Communities of all faiths celebrate a series of festivals and events throughout the year and share these events for all to see.

These events are a good excuse to promote all communities and to join in the celebrations.

At the same time, communities need to appreciate our British values especially in the workforce and need to adapt for their own wellbeing. I worked for an American company that transmitted programmes to Arabia. A mix of cultures was a positive in the sense of learning new topics and ideals. Eid was a popular time especially when fasting was over, they would feast on Arabian delights and offer the rest of us their treats, which only brought us together to relish in the culture.

As a whole, we tend to judge on first impressions and negativity only enforces pessimism and disapproval. It masks an unhappy society. Instead of fighting against it, would it not be better to work alongside communities, understanding and appreciating everyone’s values, so that Britain will thrive with cultural personalities and become one of the diverse countries in the world.

 

Join the debate. What are your views?

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