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'Diversity not a security risk' [editor's
title] Last week I attended a public meeting organised by Brent Council, entitled “Does multiculturalism hinder integration, cohesion and national security?” There were speakers from the Council itself and the Metropolitan police. Though some complained about not having their favourite speakers billed, the debate was mature throughout and I left secure in the knowledge that Brent residents are often more thoughtful than they sometimes like to give themselves credit for. The imputation by a speaker of a direct connection between multiculturalism and worsened security was duly challenged by the audience. On the wider topic of multiculturalism and integration (not assimilation), the debate was inconclusive. I heard great diversity of opinion on what participants thought was typical of Brent: 1) “Peaceful co-existence”, to say that people from different cultures simply live and let live without really integrating; 2) “Super-diversity”, to say that multiculturalism enjoyed prominence in our community and should continue to do so; and 3) “Super-Britishness”, to say that it was necessary to maintain a common national identity over and above the cultural one. Integration properly understood is a two-way street. The Green Party argues that diversity should be respected, until or unless it encroaches upon the rights of others, and that access to basic needs, such as health and housing, must be guaranteed for all. We also recognise that the major obstacle to national and international security is the pursuit of ignorant foreign policy decisions and warring actions abroad, often perpetrated in our name. Moreover, we can only begin to address social inequalities by ensuring equal and proper access to education and employment. Elected Greens have campaigned, with some success, for better working conditions, such as the London living wage and the EU working time directive. Dr Shahrar Ali Green candidate for the European Parliament London region Brent Green Party |
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