Recently, some PDA members joined other trade unions, community and faith groups in gathering along with representatives of the bereaved Sheku Bayoh family, Kadi Johnson and Kosna Bayoh, in Glasgow Green. Once all were assembled the gathered marched through the city centre singing and calling for our society to stamp out racism wherever it lurks, finally joining a rally at the Renfield Centre on Bath Street.
There was an excellent turnout, and the typical Scottish weather did nothing to dampen the high spirits of all those attending.
The recent hostile immigration policies and economic challenges which disproportionately harm black and ethnic minority workers show that the march has as much relevance now as it did when it was first held in 1988 to counter the divisive nationalist rallies planned by the British National Party.
Pharmacists are well placed to see the effects of poverty and marginalisation in the communities they serve and are all too aware of the stark differences in outcomes that can be seen in the range of demographic groups we treat.
If you feel it is important to combat racism and actively promote equality in Scotland and want to be more involved in future, please contact PDA National Officer for Scotland, Paul Flynn by emailing paul.flynn@pda-union.org.
Some of the PDA members taking part in the protest
PDA National Officer for Scotland Paul Flynn appearing at the protest
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