Caste in the UK - We need to talk about it
The National Secular Society, in partnership with Leicester Secular Society (LSS), will hold a panel discussion this summer to explore how to end caste discrimination in the UK. Caste systems are rooted in religious and cultural beliefs and are upheld in some south asian communities. Research has found evidence of caste discrimination and harassment in employment, education and in the provision of services. There are an estimated 50,000 – 200,000 people in the UK who are regarded by some as 'low caste' (sometimes known as 'dalits') and are at risk of caste discrimination. But unlike discrimination based on race, sex, sexuality or religion or belief, caste discrimination is not explicitly prohibited in UK law. The discussion will bring together campaigners and experts to explain how caste discrimination and prejudice affect the lives of people in the UK, and why laws against caste discrimination have been opposed by some religious groups. Several MPs have r...
