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Launching the Anti-racist Knowledge Bank for Children and Young People
Launching the Anti-racist Knowledge Bank for Children and Young People
By Martine Booker-Southard
Dear Colleagues,
I am proud to Co-Chair the Council's Diverse group and to serve as Learning Links Manager within Learning and Skills. Diverse is a group for employees from the global majority and allies, working together to support the Council in becoming a more inclusive employer. In my Learning and Skills role, I also support schools on their journey to becoming more actively inclusive.
I am the daughter and granddaughter of Caribbean immigrants, so I stand on the shoulders of mighty giants.
I grew up in South London, within 2 miles of the headquarters of the then British National Front. I had no choice but to be hyper vigilant, assessing if my white neighbour or teacher was going to be a friend or a foe.
These beginnings mean that being actively anti racist and being part of an actively anti-racist organisation is personal.
I am writing to share the anti-racism learning developed within Diverse and across our schools, known as the Knowledge Bank. I believe that once we understand racism, we are better equipped to challenge it.
The Knowledge Bank is a collection of recommendations gathered from adults, children, and young people. While not exhaustive, it provides a strong starting point for meaningful reflection and action. We must have the courage to talk openly about racism; silence only strengthens it. I was once told, “You don’t know what you don’t know.” The Knowledge Bank is designed to deepen our understanding so that, as an organisation, we can become more intentionally and actively anti racist.
For educators, families, and learners alike - explore age-appropriate resources in a way that works for you:
Anti-racist Knowledge Bank
When I first joined the Council nearly 20 years ago, I could never have imagined the existence of resources like the Knowledge Bank. Yet here we are in 2026, and I am honoured to share learning contributed by wonderful people, both children and adults from a wide range of backgrounds. I hope you find the Knowledge Bank insightful and engaging.
Our knowledge bank is always growing. If you discover a helpful resource, why not share it? Use our form to help keep this space fresh, relevant, and inclusive.
Submit a Suggestion
I would like to close with a quote from Maya Angelou:
“Now that I know better, I do better.”
The Diverse Staff Network is open to all who want to support inclusion and celebrate diversity. If you’d like to join or learn more, please contact us at:
Diverse@valeofglamorgan.gov.uk