Pupils in West Dunbartonshire will be given lessons in how to tackle sectarianism and racism as the council clamps down on hate crime.
The authority will work with charities Nil By Mouth and Show Racism the Red Card to highlight to pupils the impact of religious hatred and through lessons, raise further awareness of the issues surrounding sectarianism.
The lessons will be offered to selected age groups in primary and in all secondary schools as part of the curriculum.
Councillor Karen Conaghan, convener of educational services, said: “I have been campaigning to raise awareness of the need to begin a conversation on this issue, especially with our younger residents.
“It is important that we educate our children so they grow up knowing what’s right and what’s not, especially with regards to sectarianism.
“Hopefully by having lessons and raising awareness in both denominational and non-denominational schools, we can change the next generation to understand the hurt and distress this needless behaviour can have on individuals and their families. There’s no place for racism or sectarianism it in today’s society.”
It comes after the councillor said she had been contacted by distressed residents over reports of anti-Catholic graffiti across the region earlier this year.
Councillor Ian Dickson, vice convener, added: “We must get the message out to everyone that religious hatred and racism will not be tolerated in our schools or our communities. Hopefully these lessons will give children the opportunity to share their views and experiences and if necessary, empower them to recognise when other people’s behaviour is not appropriate and have the courage to speak up.”
Nil by Mouth director Dave Scott said the programme is helping to reach thousands of young people.
He said: “This programme will allow pupils and teachers to discuss issues around faith, culture and identity positivity and consider the impact of things like verbal and online abuse, graffiti and prejudiced attitudes on individuals and communities. We know the potential of young people to create real change in society and we also want to hear their views on how best we build bridges higher than walls between people from different backgrounds.”
Show Racism the Red Card campaign manager, Jordan Allison said: “Show Racism the Red Card engage educators and sporting role models to equip young people with the tools to recognise and challenge racism in all its forms.
“Racism is a deep, societal issue that affects entire communities and it’s encouraging to see councils like West Dunbartonshire take proactive steps to ensure their young citizens can tackle it.”
