Local writer Nichelle Kelleher shows us the Playing the Race Card Goodie Bag © Fizzel Castro

Playing the Race Card, what does it mean to us in 2020?

The ‘Playing the Race Card’ project is to give BAME artists in the locality an opportunity to showcase their art and be in with the chance of winning an amazing cash prize of £500. There will also be online youth art workshops on Sunday 29 November. Nichelle Kelleher explains more about the ‘Playing the Race Card’ competition.

Hastings local activist, Claudine Eccleston, explaining her new project

The topic of the competition is “What does Playing the Race Card” mean to you? It is an interesting question one that comes with negative racial connotations. For some the term “to Play the Race Card” is an excuse that some use to downplay the struggles and experiences of racism in all its forms. The use of the term is often used like a blunt tool to shut down any dialogue involving race. It’s purpose is to undermine the discussion and devalues the person, their feelings and experiences which are all legitimate and should be respected.

It is a statement that makes a person of colour feel that there point is invalid and mute. Our points are valid! They should not be shut down with hurtful casual racist rhetoric. This type of racist rhetoric has been used for decades, The Playing the Race Card project seeks to examine the realities and the deeper historical significance of this term and to encourage discussion of its use and meaning.

Dawn Dublin, director of Black Butterfly enjoying the ambiance and discussion ©️Fizzelcastro

Race is always going to be topical until people of colour receive equal treatment and opportunities on a personal. This year, the power of the Black Lives Matter movement has shown us that as a community we can and will stand together to stand up for what is morally right. This art competition gives BAME artists a wonderful chance to express themselves and present there art. I am sure this competition will produce some raw emotional beautiful pieces of art that will brighten and bring awareness to the plights of modernity being of BAME decent. To have a competition specifically for BAME artists to enter is amazing as this is demographic often looked over in the East Sussex area and I for one welcome this fantastic project and all the artists that will participate.

Local poet and dancer Paris Grande ©️Fizzelcastro

The Playing the Race Card Project is in association with Black Butterfly, a non profit cultural heritage and social justice organisation supporting people of minority ethnic community’s, based in Hastings raising awareness of equality issues and to engage communities in coming together through creative art and social activities. Also in association with The Shade Network and Good Stuff in St Leonard’s a creative programme of activities and events, led by local artists.

For more information please visit: www.playingtheracecard.co.uk

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