Robert Beckford is a university lecturer, documentary filmaker, theologian and radio presenter on BBC WM.

One of the greatest experiences in my life was going to a inner-city multi-faith, multi-ethnic comprehensive school in the Midlands. 

My best friends came from all parts of the world including Jamaica,  India, Pakistan, Italy, Ireland and Somalia.  We shared jokes, copied each others homework and spoke about our experiences as children of immigrants from the British Commonwealth. 

Religion and culture

I learned early in life, the value of knowing the religion and culture of your friends as an integral part of developing a friendship. 

I also learned the value of the old phrase, 'unity is strength.'  In the face of virulent racism from right-wing political groups, my friends and I worked together to challenge discrimination inside and outside of school.

Like everyone I know, the events in Lozells have saddened me.  The rioting, loss of life and bigotry is unprecedented within Black and Asian communities in Birmingham.

What can be done?

Although it would be wrong to ignore the tensions beneath the surface.  The challenge now is to move forward.  So what can be done? 

Returning to and learning from my own story, it seems to me that we have to make sure that we build on events that bring communities together. 

Inclusivity

Whether Black History Month, the Carnival or other occasions, they all need to work at and stress inclusivity. 

Religion represents another important area for growth.  Surely a way must be found to unite Christians and Muslims in common causes, than allow the 9/11 Islamaphobia to isolate Islam from Christian communities in Handsworth, Lozells and Aston.  

Finally, we need to refocus our attention on the real issues that confront African Caribbean and Asian people in the inner city: decent schools, job opportunities, good homes and safe streets to live on.

Robert Beckford

The Robert Beckford Show, Saturdays, 8 - 11pm,  BBC WM 95.6FM