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Ipswich pupils to show racism the red card tomorrow

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Oliver Rouane-Williams

Pupils across Ipswich will wear red this Friday as part of a national campaign to combat racism. The event marks the 10th anniversary of Wear Red Day, organised by anti-racism charity Show Racism the Red Card.

Why it matters: Education is a key tool in challenging racism and promoting understanding. By participating, Ipswich schools are taking an active role in this effort.

The big picture: Show Racism the Red Card uses the influence of football and professional players to educate young people about racism. The charity was inspired by an incident involving former Newcastle United goalkeeper Shaka Hislop in the 1990s.

Show racism the red card t-shirt
Show Racism the Redd Card t-shirtAlamy

Key points:

  • Wear Red Day takes place on Friday 18 October.

  • The event aims to educate and show support for anti-racism efforts.

  • Show Racism the Red Card produces educational resources featuring professional footballers.

  • The charity works across the UK, with offices in several regions.

By the numbers:

  • This is the 10th anniversary of Wear Red Day

  • The first event in 2014 had 7,000 registered participants

  • In 2023, that number grew to 615,000

  • The charity aims for 1 million participants in 2024

PC Sam speaking to pupils at a school
PC Sam at Ranelagh Primary SchoolSuffolk Police

Local involvement: Ipswich police officer, Sam, spoke at an assembly at Ranelagh Primary School yesterday, 16 October, to introduce the event. She discussed diversity, respect, and the importance of kindness with pupils.

The bottom line: Wear Red Day offers people of all ages in Ipswich an opportunity to visibly support anti-racism efforts and contribute to a more inclusive community. Find out more at https://www.theredcard.org/wear-red-day/

Portrait photo of Oliver Rouane-Williams
Oliver Rouane-Williams
Mentioned in this article:
Ranelagh Primary School
Posted in:
Equal Opportunity
Primary Education
Secondary Education
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Local cancer survivor to abseil Ipswich Hospital this May

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Oliver Rouane-Williams

Ipswich man Joe Alexander will join fellow adrenaline junkies to abseil down the maternity tower at Ipswich Hospital on 3-4 May, raising funds for Colchester & Ipswich Hospitals Charity.

Why it matters: The fundraising event will support improvements to patient experience across East Suffolk and North Essex NHS Foundation Trust (ESNEFT), which runs local hospitals and community services in Ipswich and Colchester.

A brave abseiler at a previous Extreme Abseil event
A brave abseiler at a previous Extreme Abseil eventIpswich & Colchester Hospitals Charity

The details: The adrenaline-fuelled weekend promises breathtaking views and a massive pat on the back for participants who – unlike me – are brave enough to take the plunge.

Who's taking part: Among the courageous abseilers is Joe Alexander from Ipswich, who is conquering his fear of heights for a cause close to his heart.

"I've experienced first-hand the exceptional care and facilities provided by the staff in the Woolverstone Wing at Ipswich Hospital," he said. "The unit is out of this world - you cannot be treated in a better place."

Joe Alexander after his second diagnosis
Joe Alexander after his second diagnosisIpswich & Colchester Hospitals Charity

The background: Joe was diagnosed with a rare form of testicular cancer in 2000 at age 25, and later with lymphoma in 2022. His personal journey has inspired his commitment to supporting local healthcare services.

What they're saying: "We're thrilled to be hosting the Extreme Abseil once again at Ipswich Hospital," said Sandra Gosney, the charity's community fundraising and events manager. "It's a fantastic opportunity for people to challenge themselves while raising funds that make such a difference to health and healing within our community."

Joe Alexander after his recovery
Joe Alexander after his recoveryIpswich & Colchester Hospitals Charity

Worth noting: Barnes Construction is sponsoring this year's event, which the charity described as "crucial" to their fundraising activities.

The bottom line: Those interested in participating or making a donation can visit colchesteripswichcharity.org.uk.

Portrait photo of Oliver Rouane-Williams
Oliver Rouane-Williams
Oliver Rouane-Williams speaking with an elderly couple in the town centre

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