Over the last five decades, British Asians have continued to make the UK their home in increasing numbers. From their initial arrival, with few economic resources but fortunately a strong educational ethos, they have established themselves firmly into the fabric of British society. With 85% or more British Indian resident in their own homes, and high levels of employment, it’s in the entrepreneurial spirit of self-employment where they have really excelled.
While acquiring their own homes, working hard at their jobs – often menial – or running their own businesses, they have given the utmost priority to the education of their children.
In 2000, the Rampton report on education in inner city boroughs confirmed this. Briefly summarised the report found that, in the 12 inner city boroughs of London, shopkeepers and other reasonably successful families worked hard and spared no efforts in allocating resources for the education of their children. In those days because of the prevailing environment, most children received private education. Today, both in the UK and abroad, thousands of second and later generation UK born Asians have become successful entrepreneurs or senior professionals in both Public and Private sector companies.
At the same time, other British Asians have dived into the Arts, writers, presenters, producers and familiar broadcasters on TV and Radio.
Though some niche groups have chronicled parts of this journey, ABPL has been approached by several readers to review our community’s amazing journey. It’s an honour we’re privileged to undertake. The publication will be extremely thorough, and conducted with academic rigour.
We plan as follows:
To assemble an editorial board of people with the requisite knowledge, expertise and skill.
These key – though not exhaustive - topics will be covered:
An overview of communities including their arrival to British shores. Their settlement in various parts of the UK in a systematic manner. All major communities to have a profile of 1000 words, along the lines of the piece on the Lohana community written by Subhash Thakrar on 16th instant. This “know your neighbour” information will enhance inter-community inclusiveness.
Economic activities analysed in separate categories, with breakdowns of professions with sizeable numbers of British Asians.
A review of all the faiths followed within the community, and associated organisations
How Philanthropy has been accepted and embraced by modern British Asians
There may be many more articles/ points to be included. Your suggestions are welcome. Suggestions are invited on various topics, especially 70 years of independent India and 45 years of Gujarat Samachar and Asian Voice.
There will be many essays of eminent personalities from leaders in the community and also a brief history of the independence movement in India.
The Annual will be approximately 250 pages in size, and any help, advice and guidance for this important historical initiative are welcome.
Please write to the Associate Editor Rupanjana Dutta on the following address Karma Yoga House,
12 Hoxton Market,
(Off Coronet Street),
London N1 6HW
or email her at [email protected]
