BCDT Anti-sectarian Award Ceremony at Beith Astro
Children from all over the Garnock Valley came together at Beith Astro in a football festival which was a culmination of a 7 week programme of activities designed by Beith Community Development Trust.
‘Give Bigotry the Boot’ covered the meaning of anti-sectarianism, how to challenge sectarian behaviour, how to resolve situations in the community and much more. One class from each year group from Garnock Academy, St Bridgets, Gateside, Beith, Moorpark, Glengarnock and St Palladius took part in sessions which covered the meaning of anti-sectarianism, how to challenge sectarian behaviour, how to resolve and negotiate differences and much more.
The children really enjoyed exploring the subject and feedback from participants has been excellent, with comments from children such as “It doesn’t matter what religion you are when you’re playing football or anything else”, “you should treat people the same as you would expect to be treated”, “you can be friends with someone from a different town”.
The anti-sectarian festival was very well attended with around 180 participants, representatives from Paisley St Mirren FC, Celtic FC, Rangers FC and Strathclyde Police. Beith Community Development Trust volunteers and staff turned out in force to ensure that the day ran smoothly by delivering skills programmes, mini football games and supporting all the children. The programme was funded by Voluntary Action Fund.
