Full Description
Popular views of white working-class communities are common but knowledge of their views on multiculturalism and change less so. This important book provides the first substantial analysis of white working-class perspectives on themes of multiculturalism and change in the UK, creating an opportunity for these 'silent voices' to be heard. Based on over 200 interviews in multiple sites the results are startling - challenging politicians, policy makers and researchers. Improving our understanding of how this group went from 'hero to zero', became framed as racist, resistant to change and disconnected from politics, the book suggests a new and progressive agenda for white working class communities to become a fully inclusive part of a modern and diverse country in the 21st century. The book will be valuable to academics and students as well as policy-makers and practitioners in national government and organisations.
Contents
From hero to zero: the decline of the white working class;
The birth of chav culture: stereotypes and exclusion;
White working class and racist? An exploration;
A reactionary voice: nuanced views on multiculturalism;
Integrated and equal: similar challenges and opportunities;
Reshaping white working class identities: inclusive and progressive;
An agenda for change.
