MSP takes part in political shadowing scheme

 

The Coalition for Racial Equality (CRER) have continued their annual BME Political Shadowing Scheme, designed to address the under-representation of BME communities within the Scottish political arena.

The Political Shadowing Scheme involves an intensive programme of training for qualified individuals who have a passion for politics and political ambitions.

One of the key elements of the scheme is the opportunity to shadow a Member of the Scottish Parliament, offering participants an opportunity to become more active in Scottish politics and within political parties.

Hamilton, Larkhall and Stonehouse MSP, Christina McKelvie was delighted to once again take part in the scheme, playing host to Glasgow University student, Noor Abdel-Razik.

Commenting on the placement, Christina said:

“Having Noor work with me for the past six weeks has been an invaluable help. I have no doubt at all that she will become an absolute leader in whatever career she decides to move into.

“Every year, the Coalition for Racial Equality proudly continue their Political Shadowing Scheme – a much needed scheme to redress the current imbalance of BME representation throughout all levels of Scottish politics.  

“The Scottish Government remain committed to building the inclusive, welcoming and representative Scotland we know we can be and organisations like CRER are vital in achieving that goal.

Commenting on her placement, Noor Abdel-Razik said:

“"I was able to use the skills that I'd developed over four years at university and apply them to a job that I felt passionate about. I am indebted to Christina for offering to accommodate me into her busy schedule and I have learned so much. Now that I have experience a career within politics feels within my grasp."

Rebecca Marek, Policy and Parliamentary Officer for CRER, added:

“The Political Shadowing Scheme was established to address the severe under-representation of Black and minority ethnic (BME) individuals in the Scottish political arena.

“While BME groups overall are under-represented in the Scottish Parliament , there has never been a BME woman elected as an MSP. Furthermore, there are only 4 female BME councillors in the whole of Scotland, or 0.3% of the total.

“Given this, we are grateful to all MSPs who participate in the scheme and allow BME individuals the opportunity to gain experience in Scottish politics. CRER is hopeful that our efforts will help to redress the imbalance in Scottish politics to foster a more equal society.”