Pass the Baton: A Festival for Unity and the Voice Against Racism

BMet and South and City College, in collaboration with Birmingham Race Impact Group, are proud to announce the “Pass the Baton Anti-Racist Festival,” a profound day-long event dedicated to promoting unity and the importance of anti-racism.

Set to take place on Thursday, 25th April at The Crossing in Digbeth, the festival is a call to action to empower and educate the next and future generations about equality and justice.

In a united front against racism, the festival will feature educational workshops, spoken word and musical acts as well as a special tribute to Benjamin Zephaniah, whose family has given permission for his inclusion in the event.

Jagwant Johal from BRIG said: “The baton we pass on is heavy with the weight of history but carries the lightness of hope. The pass the baton festival symbolises a commitment to a future where diversity is celebrated, and equality is the standard.”

With special emphasis on engaging young individuals between the ages of 16-18 the festival aims not just to educate but also to provide a platform for voices that need to be heard, encouraging a collective step towards a more equitable society.

Approximately 120 young people from BMet, South and City College, and schools across the city will attend the event and will be encouraged to sign up up to BRIG Youth to carrying the baton for anti-racism moving forward.

The event has been organised by students at BMet and South and City College as a work experience project.

Pat Carvalho Principal at BMet said: “This event is so important in helping to ensure that the conversation on anti-racism and equity of opportunity continues to take place.  This event is igniting a torch of change to be carried through every community, lighting the way for hope and inclusion for all.  I am also extremely proud that the event has been organised by our young people for young people.”

Mike Hopkins MBE and Principal at South and City College adds: “This festival stands as a beacon of what we can achieve together for racial harmony and social justice. We are honoured to be part of this event and are extremely pleased that our students have taken the challenge with such gusto to organise the event.”

The festival aims not just to educate but also to provide a platform for voices that need to be heard, encouraging a collective step towards a more equitable society.

The event sponsored by One Advanced and Gallagher – Insurance – Risk Management – Consulting – is closed to the public but will be streamed across social media platforms.

Anyone interested in joining BRIG Youth can email passthebaton@bmet.ac.uk