Government report on racism has left some Sheffield people feeling 'disgraced'

The Joint Committee on Human Rights - which is appointed by the House of Lords and the House of Commons, and deals with matters relating to human rights in the UK - published the report to the public on November 11.

Focusing on racial inequalities concerning the areas of the criminal justice system, immigration, health, and democracy, some believe the report is a damning reflection of racism experienced by black individuals.

Kevin Kayinamura said: “The fact that they chose to release the report via Twitter at just before 1am shows just how much they are really not taking black people seriously. At 1am not much news is happening and people are most likely asleep - it’s like they don’t want people to notice, so they can just brush racism under the carpet.

“It leaves you feeling a bit deflated.”

Many others also picked up on the odd time of publishing and some argued that the 45 page report was insubstantial.

The report stated that over 60 percent of black people in the UK do not believe their health is as equally protected by the NHS compared to white people, which may provide support for the ongoing discussions surrounding the disproportionate impact of Covid-19 on those from a black or ethnic minority background too.

One woman who wished to remain anonymous, said: “The report acknowledges that racial inequalities exist but it does just that, like all the other reports before it. Windrush, Stephen Lawrence etc.

“One bit of this latest report left me particularly concerned.”

The woman refers to paragraph 45 of the report: “The death rate for Black women in childbirth is five times higher than for white women. The NHS acknowledge and regret this disparity but have no target to end it.”

The report also found that the majority of black people in the UK do not believe their human rights are equally protected compared to white people and reasons include unequal treatment in education, employment and crime.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson responded to the Black Lives Matter protests with the announcement that the Government would set up a Commission to look at racial inequality.

Some are said to be disgraced at the fact that there are currently no black commissioners on the Equality and Human Rights Commission board, and question the Government’s intention for meaningful action.

Sonia White said: “If there are no black people representing us, how can they champion for black people’s rights?

“This report shows that the system isn’t working and not much is being done about it.

“Black people dominate the mental health wards and have done for some time. The report states they are aware it’s a major issue, but do they really care?”

In Sheffield, work is being done by Sheffield Race Equality Commission to address race inequalities within the city.

People have said they have more faith in Sheffield’s approach at tackling racism than that of the Government’s, as the commission is at least ‘more representative’.

The report can be read here.

In these confusing and worrying times, local journalism is more vital than ever. Thanks to everyone who helps us ask the questions that matter by taking out a digital subscription or buying a paper. We stand together. Nancy Fielder, editor.