Features / Bristol Waste
Film highlights racism endured by Bristol Waste staff
People who work every day to ensure Bristol’s streets and homes are clean and safe have spoken out about racism they have to endure.
“I hope it opens up people’s eyes to what is happening, so they can understand what we go through and how it feels,” says Bryan Green, a driver loader with Bristol Waste who features in a film released by the company.
In the short film, some of the city’s black crew members speak about how they have been treated and the racism they have to face while doing their jobs.
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The aim is to highlight the issue and make people think about what they are saying. Bristol Waste bosses have also pledged to stand up to racism and say they will challenge and report it.
Reece Ward, a recycling operative, who also features in the film speaks about the decision to speak about his experiences. “I was nervous. I wasn’t sure how it would come across,” says Reece.
“Once the filming started though, it was like having a conversation, being able to voice our concerns and opinions.
“I hope this film shows people that, especially in 2021, racism isn’t acceptable. I hope it opens people’s eyes that racism hasn’t gone away. It’s still a massive issue and it shouldn’t be swept under the carpet.”
Tony Lawless, the managing director at Bristol Waste says: “We believe all our staff have the right to work without fear of discrimination. We will not tolerate abuse. We will challenge it. And we will report it.
“Standing up to racism is not just important to us, it is essential. Some of the events that took place across the world, and in our city, last year prompted more conversations. As a company, we were saddened to hear about the experiences of some of our black colleagues, who told us that racism can still be a part of their everyday lives, but thankful that space had been opened up for us to talk about it.
“We hope this film makes people think and helps create a better, kinder, more tolerant city.”
Bristol Waste bosses have signed the Bristol Equalities Charter and say they are rolling out a new training programme for every staff member.
The team worked with their diversity & inclusion group to develop the film. The group helps review company policies and educate and support staff.
Jason Eldridge, operations director at Bristol Waste adds: “We all have a duty to tackle racism when we see it. And we want everyone to know we will not tolerate any abuse.
“As a company, we are proud of the steps we have already taken, but also acknowledge that there is more that we can and will do to support people from minority backgrounds. We hope this film makes people stop, think and act more kindly.”
Main image taken from film by Bristol Waste
Read more: New series explores pupils’ experiences of racism and discrimination in schools
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