There is no more evidence that the UK government continues to lose the plot than the idea that African-Caribbean boys should have role models such as teachers, lawyers, and even politicians such as Paul Boateng.
In recommendations presented to Communities Secretary Hazel Blears, this is the best way to attract black boys away from the gang and gun culture. Which is, of course, absolute rubbish.
ROLE MODELS
It may be true that rap stars and footballers present incorrect role models, but what must be understood is that these influences are part of ‘culture’, not professional life. Hence, the best way to achieve the desired effect is to use culture to its full extent.
This requires role models within culture who actually start off as these kids do, and not those who are perceived as the ‘lucky ones’ who got a break, or those who have abandoned black culture for white.
CULTURE
Programmes such as Eastenders should get their act together here. Indeed, they have a perfect role model in the character, Gus. A young black lad who managed to escape gang culture through his brother, he is a poor, but decent, honest person.
Gus has not abandoned who he is, but has managed to be a fully functioning member of a decent society. He hasn’t had lucky breaks, or refused to accept who he is. A perfect fictional role model, except – at present he is seen as a loser.
What brilliant opportunities are missed – by culture, and the idiots in government who think they understand the problem.
© Anthony North, August 2007
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