Scottish Greens MSP to hold members' debate celebrating Scotland’s 25th Black History Month
Scottish Greens MSP Iris Duane will hold a members' debate this evening (Tuesday 27th October) in the Scottish Parliament celebrating Scotland’s 25th Black History Month.
In the 27 years since the Scottish Parliament was reconvened, Iris is one of the first black MSPs ever elected to the chamber.
The debate will honour the contributions of the African and Caribbean diaspora to Scotland's history, whilst recognising the challenges they continue to face today.
Iris said:
“I am honoured to bring this debate to the Scottish Parliament, recognising Scotland’s rich history with African and Caribbean diaspora.
“It took seven sessions of the Scottish Parliament to see history made with the first black MSPs finally elected – something England managed to do 12 years prior to the re-establishment of the Scottish Parliament.
“I am neither proud nor ashamed to be one of the first black people to sit in our chamber, but I appreciate that I must set an example so that I am not one of the last.
“Gaining my seat for the Scottish Greens despite the rise of the far-right and their determined efforts to stir up division and hatred, makes this even more meaningful.
“I am determined to help build a Scotland where nobody is judged by their race."
Iris added:
“This year’s Black History Month theme is ‘Honouring Our Communities’ and the best way for myself and others in our Parliament to do that is by offering meaningful, tangible change as a counter to the politics of hate that have spread across Glasgow and Scotland over the summer.
“I would love to live in a Scotland where Black History Month is a relic of a bygone time where race defines nothing about them and we judge people on their contribution to society.
“Sadly that is not the Scotland we live in today, but the Scottish Greens will work towards making that a reality and representing all of our communities across the country.”