What is SARI?
We’re a charitable organisation that’s here to support victims of hate within our community. We also aim to promote equality and good relations between people with protected characteristics, as defined by law.
Most of our people have some direct experience of facing hate-motivated behaviour. We all have a clear understanding of what SARI is trying to achieve. Our Board of Trustees is responsible for approving SARI’s working policies and procedures. Most of them also have personal experience of hate crime and inequality.
Our employees are mostly engaged in casework, supporting victims of hate crime. But they also work with children, young people and schools and other education establishments, providing support to pupils facing racist and other hate incidents. We also deliver anti-hate, equality, diversity and inclusion, and cultural awareness sessions to pupils, staff and governors. Our work also extends to young offenders.
Our history
Before the formation of SARI, the victims of racism in Bristol received no coordinated response or specialist support from agencies. In 1988, a steering group was set up. Bristol Racial Equality Council, United Housing Association and the Inner City Mental Health Team began working in consultation with victims of racial harassment and community leaders.
A management committee was formed to secure funding, and with the support of a Home Office Safer Cities Grant, SARI was established, becoming fully operational in 1991. Then, it employed a full-time project manager and caseworker as well as a part-time administrator. In that first year, 44 cases were referred to us.
SARI was largely the vision of Black and Minority Ethnic housing provider United Housing Association and its first chair Sohail Elahi. He carried out that role from 1991-1996 after being heavily involved with the rest of the steering group and the pioneering work that led to the creation of SARI.
Remembering Batook pandya
Batook Pandya, our founding Director, was instrumental in taking us on the journey from a small organisation based in one room of the Coach House, to an award-winning charity based in Portland Square. His death in 2014 was a personal loss to us all, but he will be remembered as the bravest and most committed leader for improving race equality – and conveying to us all just how destructive racism and inequality is.
Batook represented all that SARI stands for – to be brave, to speak out, to work tirelessly and to challenge the very structures that are in place to protect us when they fail. Soon after his death, Alex Raikes and Agnes Yeomans stepped up to take on the challenge of being Co-Directors, pledging to continue all the incredible work Batook did for our organisation.
Our Objects
The charity’s objects (‘Objects’) are specifically restricted to the following:
- To work towards the elimination of racism and inequalities for people with protected characteristics as defined in law;
- to promote equality of opportunity for those with protected characteristics and to foster good relations between those with protected characteristics and the general population;
- to advance the education of the public in the causes and effects of racism and inequalities towards those with protected characteristics; and
- to promote for the public benefit the relief and treatment of any physical, mental or emotional distress suffered by any person as a result of that person or a member of her or his family having suffered inequalities on the grounds of one or more protected characteristics.
Our Vision, Values, Mission and Mantra
Our Vision
Our vision is a world where diversity is celebrated, and every individual is valued equally. We envision a society free from racism and inequality, where everyone has the opportunity to thrive in an environment of mutual respect and understanding.
Inclusive Communities
We aspire to create inclusive communities where people of all backgrounds feel welcome and valued. In our vision, diversity is not only accepted but embraced as a source of strength and enrichment.
Equality and Justice
Our vision is rooted in the principles of equality and justice. We imagine a world where all individuals have access to the same opportunities and resources. In this world, laws and policies are designed to protect and uplift everyone, regardless of their identity.
Empowered Individuals
We see a future where individuals are empowered to be their authentic selves, and express their identities without fear of discrimination or prejudice.
Multiculturalism
Our vision includes a deep appreciation for cultural differences. We believe that understanding and valuing diverse cultures enriches our collective experience. In our vision, cultural exchange and dialogue are celebrated, fostering greater empathy and connection.
Our Values
We have four core values which underpin how we work as an organisation and as individuals:
Honesty
We communicate openly and clearly and take responsibility for both successes and challenges through teaching, learning, and improving. We are transparent and accountable to our colleagues, clients, partners, communities, and funders.
Empowerment
We believe individuals and communities are a force for positive change, individually and in collaboration. We are community-led, person-centred and ambitious whilst empowering and driving ourselves, and others, to make things happen.
Autonomous
We are an independent charity, rooted in the communities we serve. We use our voice and influence to challenge and inspire systemic change in public and private services, communities, public policy, and people’s attitudes.
Difference
We are proud and respectful of our diversity and united by a common cause to challenge inequality and hate crime. We value, respect, and support each other and our partners and stakeholders, and work without prejudice.
Our Mission
Our mission is to combat racism and inequality in all its forms through support, education, and advocacy. We strive to create a society where everyone, regardless of their background, is treated with dignity, respect, and fairness.
Support
Providing direct support to individuals and communities affected by racism and inequality is central to our mission. Our goal is to empower those we serve by offering resources, guidance, and a safe space to share their experiences and seek assistance, ensuring they do not face these obstacles alone.
Education
We believe that education is the cornerstone of change. Through training, school sessions, and outreach programs, we aim to raise awareness about the impact of racism and inequality, fostering a more informed and compassionate society. Our educational initiatives are designed to challenge stereotypes, dispel myths, and promote understanding among diverse communities.
Advocacy
We actively engage in advocacy efforts to influence public policy and promote systemic change. By collaborating with public bodies, community leaders, and other organisations, we work to ensure that laws and policies reflect the principles of equality and justice. Our advocacy is rooted in the voices and experiences of those who have been marginalised, amplifying their calls for change.
Our Mantra
ALL DIFFERENT, ALL EQUAL
Our mantra encapsulates the core of our ethos and drives our every action and initiative. It not only defines who we are, but also embodies our commitment to fostering an inclusive society where every individual is valued and respected.
We recognise that diversity is our strength. Each person brings a unique blend of experiences, perspectives, and backgrounds that enrich our communities. Our mantra celebrates these differences, urging us to embrace and learn from one another. It reminds us that our individuality contributes to the vibrant tapestry of our organisation and society.
Our mantra is also a call to action against discrimination and prejudice, advocating for the fair treatment of all individuals. By affirming that everyone is equal, we stand firm in our resolve to dismantle systemic barriers and promote equal opportunities for all, regardless of race, ethnicity, gender, sexuality, ability, or any other characteristic.
All different, all equal is more than just a mantra—it’s a guiding principle that shapes our collective identity and actions as an organisation. It reflects our unwavering dedication to a world where differences are celebrated and equality is a reality for everyone.
Contact Us
Our Mailing Address
Stand Against Racism & Inequality
15 Portland Square
Bristol
BS2 8SJ
Get in Touch
Our Funding Partners
