Education As Power

In Summer 2006, inspired by working class education programme 'Culture Move', 'Education Is Power' was a Brighton based programme open to all youth, but pitched at those most socially and economically marginalised. In particular, young working class people understand the trials and tribulations of life because they live it, not because they read about someone else life in expensive, glossy textbooks. This is due to people being excluded from reaching their aspirations due to lack of resources, condescending teachers putting them off reaching for their dreams and historical exclusion passed down over generations, and so on. 'Education Is Power' is about 'encouraging self-organisation and self-mobilisation amongst working class youth' and uniting people to express, and ultimately challenge injustices against them.

It means we must be critical from of other (government and council funded) youth projects and not aim to pacify anger but recognise it as legitimate and utilise this passion as a mobilising tool for positive change. It sees the gulf of opportunity between working class and other youths at the root of social problems and these 'problems' as a just and correct anger at the system of inequality and oppression. Therefore it does not aim to eliminate this anger, but to facilitate leadership skills and direct it into something positive.

Regardless of class we are all connected by the feelings of youth and striving for our desires when there are many hurdles to jump.  The horrifying truth pounding in our chests is that in the UK specific people from specific backgrounds are fooled into believing that everyone has the same potential to achieve them. 'Education Is Power' was not a one off event and long-term relationships were built with those who participate, both through more frequent workshops and through participation in events within the local community, at youth centres and social nights.