The first generation of those children encouraged to debate, support a cause and campaign about injustice are now in their teens and twenties. They are making us think and pushing us on matters of injustice – and I love that.
But with it there appears to be a toxic side effect: intolerance.
In helping them to name how they are feeling comes another side effect: using that named emotion to bludgeon someone with a different view to them. In giving these important skills, is it possible we have forgotten to equip with other skills: listening, tolerance and realising we don't always have to win the debate?
Yes, we need to fight the injustice of inequality in the world. There is a lot – that is why there are so many characteristics named in the Equality Act, some of which still remain ignored.
But is it possible that this intolerance of the other opinion and using how we feel as a weapon has alienated a whole new generation from joining the debate? In giving these important skills, is it possible we have forgotten to equip with other skills: listening, tolerance and realising we don't always have to win the debate?
Yes, we need to fight the injustice of inequality in the world. There is a lot – that is why there are so many characteristics named in the Equality Act, some of which still remain ignored.
But is it possible that this intolerance of the other opinion and using how we feel as a weapon has alienated a whole new generation from joining the debate? Kay Morgan-Gurr is Chair of Children Matter. CT.
