Racial equality film launch

15-SEP-06

A new interactive film to raise awareness of cultural diversity and racial equality among young people was launched at an evening presentation at the Festival Hall, Bolton Town Hall on Thursday 14th September.

The film, entitled ‘World Race’, is aimed at 9 to 13 year olds, and uses quiz style questions together with a music video to highlight different cultures and life issues.

Aiming to dispel any stereotypical views of people from different backgrounds, the film will be shown in schools around the borough later in the year.

A number of partners have been involved in the project and are committed to the film’s success, including Bolton at Home, Bolton Council, Bolton Community Homes, Bolton Cop shop, East Bolton Regeneration and Chris Deakin Productions.

The launch event previewed the film and brought together the partners behind the project and all those involved in the film making. Entertainment was also provided on the night by performers including the Cats Youth Theatre Tap Group and North West Asian Arts.

Raising awareness among young people about the potential impact of racial harassment and discrimination reinforces Bolton at Home’s continuing commitment to deal effectively with anti-social behaviour. This includes a preventative approach through education, as well as enforcement and rehabilitation.

The World Race project follows on from the success of another interactive film, ‘Up 2 U’, which has been delivered to over 30 schools in Bolton since 2005 and is seen as a model of good practice nationally. This innovative film, also aimed at 9 to 13 year olds, highlights many aspects of anti-social behaviour and disorder including crime, vandalism, bullying, graffiti, hoax 999 calls and drug abuse. Pupils are engaged in interactive storylines and can explore both positive and negative consequences of choices made in relation to anti-social activity and behaviour.

Violet Barnard, Vice Chair of Bolton at Home, said: “We are delighted with how the first film has been received. We hope the World Race film project can build upon this success and engage young people to respect the differences between people and help them develop good relationships for the future.”