Birmingham programme
28th Feb 2009: Aston University, Main Building, G11 (ground floor – enter through main reception)
This event is free (donations appreciated). No tickets needed, just turn up on the day.
09:15 – [Doors open]
On-screen live from London
09.45 – Opening key note address: Shami Chakrabarti, Liberty
10.00 – First Plenary: Citizens and the state: the crisis of liberty
Chair: Georgina Henry
Speakers: Dominic Grieve QC MP, Helena Kennedy QC, Sir David Varney, Ken Macdonald QC
In Birmingham
11.45-12.45 – workshop
Preventing Violent Extremism? State surveillance and community organisation
In April 2007 the Government launched its action plan ‘Preventing violent extremism (PVE): winning hearts and minds’, identifying four key responses: promoting shared values; supporting local solutions; building civic capacity and leadership; strengthening the role of faith institutions and leaders. At least £76 million has been earmarked to “support local authorities and community groups in improving the capacity of local communities to resist violent extremism” with initiatives including: developing leadership programmes for young people; strengthening the capacity of women’s groups; local projects to build citizenship.
Birmingham has been identified as a priority area for this work and many community groups have been approached to participate in the programme. This workshop considers the background to PVE as a government intervention and asks what are the risks and opportunities for community organisations.
Speakers from local community groups and campaigns, including discussion of the history of state interventions in Irish, Black and Muslim communities, a critical account of government funding of PVE initiatives and linking to debates about ID cards and database Britain.
1.00pm: Option of Lunching together (venue t.b.c.)
For further information contact Gargi Bhattacharyya at g.s.bhattacharyya@aston.ac.uk
