Amsterdam tackles discrimination in primary schools
Discrimination is unfortunately part of life in primary schools across Amsterdam although up until now, the subject hasn’t been truly broached. Discrimination is primarily dealt with reactively based upon individual incidents and few preventative measures are in place. In order to tackle discrimination effectively, a safe educational environment is required in which the subject can be discussed openly and addressed.
Targeting discrimination
These are a few of the conclusions drawn following an investigation initiated by the City of Amsterdam into discrimination in primary schools. The research is part of the Targeting Discrimination Plan (Aanpak Discriminatie) 2009-2010.
Schools actively fight bullying wherever possible but mistakenly classify what many parents and children see as discrimination under this dominator. Discrimination is even more serious, it’s ‘bullying who you really are’.
The recommendations of the report include increased efforts to place diversity in a positive light and including the subject of discrimination in the school plan. More attention to the education required by law regarding civic responsibility would also be beneficial.
Working together
Alderperson Andrée van Es (responsible for Diversity and Citizenship) commented on the findings, saying: “It is vitally important that children learn at an early age what discrimination is and the effect it has on people. Schools play a crucial role in this. A tolerant Amsterdam begins with the young Amsterdammers in primary school."
"For example, the investigation found that pupils think that discrimination is terrible but that they don’t believe calling someone a homosexual is discriminatory. We need to discuss discrimination at an early age in order to address this problem and avoid matters escalating further. But it is also important that we work together, parents and teachers need to cooperate to tackle discrimination in primary schools.”
Making progress
The report entitled ‘Discrimination is bullying who you really are!’ has been discussed with the joint primary school management board in Amsterdam and the schools have agreed to use the findings and start addressing the problems. The City of Amsterdam will remain in contact with schools regarding the improvements.
As far as the City of Amsterdam is concerned, these agreements are part of the Focused Targeting of Discrimination Plan (Focusaanpak Discriminatie), recently decided upon by the College of Mayor and Alderpersons. Fighting discrimination within the educational system is one of the spearheads of the plan.
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