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Foreword
The bigoted sectarian attitudes and behaviours of a minority have scarred Scottish life for far too long. I have seen this bigotry throughout my life and I still see it today in some parts of Scotland. Manifestations of sectarian bigotry may change, but the divisions, anger and resentment that they cause remain firmly entrenched in Scottish life. It doesn't have to be like this.
Scotland is a modern multi-faith and multi-cultural society where difference should be a cause for celebration and not a reason for mistrust. The rich and varied traditions that make up 21st-century Scotland are what makes our society so dynamic. Mutual understanding and respect between people of all beliefs, faiths and those of no faith must be one of the fundamental principles that we all live by. While we must respect traditions we must also make it clear that 'tradition' does not excuse abusive behaviour.
At the Summit on Sectarianism, which I held on 14 February 2005, I made it clear that this is a problem that we face as a society, and a problem that we must address as a society. That is why we must take a broad approach if we are to achieve and sustain change.
In this document, my Ministerial colleagues outline some of the work that they have been taking forward since the Summit, and identify the key areas of action which are still to be achieved. The work that is being taken forward is built around the four key themes of education, sport, faith and marches and parades. An additional section covers some of the work which does not fall easily into these themes. Much has already been achieved, and I fully acknowledge the positive contribution that football clubs, faith groups, local authorities and many others have made to this agenda.
The tide of public opinion is turning against the bigoted few and we must let the bigots and bullies know that sectarian behaviour has no place in today's Scotland. I fully recognise that there are no quick fixes or easy solutions here, but I am certainly not pessimistic about our future. I truly believe that through positive action we can put sectarian attitudes into dustbin of history and build a better society. By working together we can all contribute to the one Scotland of many cultures that we aspire to be. The Scotland our children deserve to grow up in.
Jack McConnell MSP
First Minister
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