Race chief retires - but job is not finished yet
Maxwell Kusi Obodum • Published 29 Jan 2012 12:00
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A RETIRING race relations chief who has spent more than two decades standing up for Reading's ethnic minorities in the battle against prejudice and discrimination says his work is far from over.
Reading Council for Racial Equality (RCRE) director Rajinder Sohpal's voice swelled with emotion when he handed over the reins to deputy Victor Koroma at a packed farewell party last Thursday.
Mr Sohpal, who has led the organisation since 1991, said: "Prejudice and
racism isn't a switch you can just put on and off.
"It's one of those ugly things that can raise its head any time, particularly in
rising unemployment, poverty and high deprivation. I don't think for one minute this task is done or ever will be. I'm not retiring, I'm hanging up my boots as director and I shall be around to support the organisation."
More than 100 politicians, community leaders and charities were at the event, hosted by ITV Meridian Tonight presenter Sangeeta Bhabra and Unity Arts director John Sailsman, which also looked back at the organisation's work in fostering racial harmony in Reading since the 1960s.
Ironically, Reading Conservatives, who axed the RCRE's £98,639 grant last year while running the council in coalition with the Lib Dems, were holding a group meeting in a neighbouring room and as they filed in they had to pick their way through Mr Sohpal's guests.
The current Labour ruling administration has released £30,000 to keep the organisation afloat while it discusses potentially merging with Sakoma - a 40- member consultation network uniting ethnic minority groups, set up in 2005 with Mr Sohpal's help.
Mr Koroma labelled him as his "mentor" and said: "I've been with the best and learned from the best and I look forward to stepping into his boots."
Former Reading West Labour MP Martin Salter whose work with RCRE included visiting mosques in the wake of 9/11 in 2001, told the audience: "Good community relations don't just happen by accident, they happen due to hard work and dedication. That people have stepped up to the plate in this town is a tribute to Rajinder and the RCRE."
Afterwards council leader Jo Lovelock said: "Rajinder has been at the forefront of fighting and tackling prejudice. He will be a hard act to follow but Victor will do a good job."
Sakoma development worker George Matthew said: "Rajinder is someone who brings people together to challenge discrimination, prejudice and racism and we are hoping his legacy can continue."
This article appeared in Reading Chronicle 27 Feb 12
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