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Tense times

Early years staff have expressed concern at racial incidents. And yet, says Mary Evans, they are in a unique position to be supportive at times of tension and to help children appreciate our diverse society An American politician famously remarked that truth is the first casualty of war but he could have added that sadly, all too often, tolerance is the first victim at times of tension.

An American politician famously remarked that truth is the first casualty of war but he could have added that sadly, all too often, tolerance is the first victim at times of tension.

Racist abuse and attacks are increasing against the backdrop of events in Iraq. This time, there is the further threat to community stability with the extremist British National Party fielding candidates in 200 wards at the local elections held today (1 May).

Several local authorities throughout Britain have already found, through their routine monitoring of racist incidents, that there has been an increase this year in attacks on Muslim pupils and on pupils who are believed to be Muslim, according to Sue Shinkfield, Liverpool City Council's senior effectiveness officer for equal opportunities.

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