Racial Discrimination on the Rise in the UK: Why Foreign Names Should Not Make You a Target

Disclaimer: This article reflects the author’s personal views and lived experiences. It is intended for awareness-raising and informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or political advice. Any references to public figures or political statements are based on publicly available information and are included solely for the purpose of discussion. Readers are encouraged to conduct their own research and exercise due diligence when forming opinions or taking action on the topics addressed. The views expressed in the original article are intended to encourage informed discussion and reflection on racial discrimination and historical context, not to rewrite or diminish any individual’s lived experiences. History is complex, and while some readers may not have encountered certain forms of prejudice, others have faced them directly. The content draws on historical accounts, social commentary, and personal experiences, and is not intended to offend or cause harm. Readers are encouraged to explore multiple sources and perspectives before forming conclusions.

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A Growing Concern in Modern Britain

Clarification: While I respect that many readers have had positive experiences with people from diverse backgrounds, it is important to recognise that personal experiences can differ greatly depending on where and when someone grew up. The absence of racial bullying or discrimination in one school or community does not mean it did not exist elsewhere in the UK. My perspective is informed by both historical records and personal experiences, and the article’s aim was to highlight that discrimination, whether overt or subtle, has been a lived reality for many people over time. Similarly, historical discussions, such as the role of the Polish Army in World War II, should acknowledge that Britain and Poland were allies, each contributing significantly to the war effort, albeit from different strategic positions. Neither side’s sacrifices should be diminished, and historical nuance matters when telling these stories. It is important to recognise the well-documented role of Polish forces in the Allied war effort. According to historical accounts, including the Military history of Poland during World War II (Wikipedia), 145 Polish pilots flew British planes under British command during the Battle of Britain, 79 in mixed squadrons under the RAF after July 1940, 32 in wholly Polish Squadron 303 after 31 August 1940, and 34 in entirely Polish Squadron 302. Polish pilots also served in the Polish Air Force in Britain from 1944, using British planes, and earlier instances of Polish pilots flying French planes occurred during the same period. These contributions formed an integral part of the collective fight against Nazi Germany and are a testament to the shared sacrifices between nations. (Edited 14/08/25)

Thank you for sharing your views on MSN. I appreciate that experiences vary, and it’s important to acknowledge both the positive and negative sides of history. The article was not written to undermine anyone’s contribution or lived experience, but to highlight that discrimination has existed for some people, even if others were fortunate not to experience it. Historical records confirm that Polish forces made significant contributions to the Allied victory in WWII, and this shared history is something we should remember with respect. (Edited 14/08/25)

Mental Health Awareness: While open discussion and debate are valuable, it’s important to remember that negative or dismissive commentary can contribute to emotional distress and mental health deterioration for those on the receiving end. Words have impact, and when expressed without consideration, they can come across as toxic or even bullying. Respectful dialogue allows different perspectives to be heard without causing harm. (Edited 14/08/25)

Racism & Discrimination Do Not Live Here!

In recent years, the UK has witnessed a worrying increase in racial discrimination, fuelled in part by divisive political rhetoric. While discrimination is often associated with newly arrived migrants, an alarming reality is emerging: British-born citizens with foreign names are also being targeted.

This is not just about immigration policy; it is about identity, belonging, and fairness. Many people who have lived in the UK their entire lives now feel unsafe and judged simply because their name is not traditionally British.

A Personal Perspective

I was born in the UK to Polish migrants. My father first arrived in Britain during World War II, joining the Army to fight alongside the British. As a mark of gratitude, Winston Churchill ensured that hostels were built around the country to house veterans and their families. One such place was Ilford Park, Newton Abbot, Devon, now the last one of its kind still standing.

As a child, I would visit my grandmother there during the summer holidays. Despite my roots being firmly in Britain, my journey has been marked by racial prejudice. From the age of five, when I could not yet speak English, I endured taunts and ridicule. In secondary school, the bullying continued, not for my actions or beliefs, but simply because I had a foreign name.

Today, decades later, I am still confronted by the unsettling reality that some political figures publicly suggest that “all foreigners should leave the UK.” I am a British citizen, yet this rhetoric makes me question my safety. The most disturbing part is that many followers of this MP seem to agree with such sweeping and discriminatory statements.

Having a foreign name can sometimes make individuals a target for prejudice, harassment, or exclusion. The dangers range from subtle discrimination in employment and housing to overt verbal abuse or even physical threats. It is important to remain aware of your surroundings, trust your instincts, and document any incidents of racial abuse or discrimination. Reporting such behaviour to the police, relevant equality bodies, or workplace HR departments ensures that it is formally addressed. Building strong community ties, knowing your legal rights under the Equality Act 2010, and challenging prejudice when safe to do so are key steps in stopping these behaviours from escalating.

Notable Foreign-Born Individuals & Advocates Who Faced Discrimination in the UK

Rudy Narayan (1938–1998) – Barrister & Civil Rights Activist

Originally from Guyana, Rudy Narayan became a powerful legal advocate for marginalized communities in Britain. He defended individuals targeted by police actions, such as the Mangrove Nine, and spoke out against systemic racism within the legal establishment. He famously protested when clients were told he was “not available,” exposing racial bias within the profession.

Asquith Xavier (1920–1980) – Railway Barrier-Breaker

Born in Dominica, Asquith Xavier courageously challenged the “colour bar” at Euston station in 1966, insisting on being allowed to serve as a train guard. He opened the door for countless ethnic minorities in British Rail and is commemorated with a plaque at Euston.

Avtar Singh Jouhl (1937–2022) – Anti-Racism Campaigner

An Indian-born trade unionist and campaigner, Avtar Singh Jouhl tirelessly fought against segregation in Smethwick, notably exposing the ‘colour bar’ in pubs to national attention, including to Malcolm X. He fought for fair pay and conditions for South Asian workers in foundries, confronting institutional racism head-on.

Bishop Rose Hudson-Wilkin – Faith Leader & Social Justice Advocate

Born in Jamaica, Rose Hudson-Wilkin became the Church of England’s first Black female bishop. She overcame prejudice, sexism, and religious discrimination to publicly champion refugees, speak out against racism, and contest institutional abuses within the church.

Legal Champions Facing Discrimination, or Fighting Against It

• Nicola Braganza KC – A leading barrister in equality, public law, and human rights. She has led landmark challenges against the Home Office—such as overturning unfair immigration fees and challenging discriminatory Windrush treatment. She also represented victims of institutional failure and trafficking Garden Court Chambers.
• Catherine Meredith – A highly respected human rights and anti-trafficking specialist handling complex asylum, immigration, and anti-discrimination cases. While her heritage isn’t specified, her work serves marginalized foreign-born groups and reflects solidarity in legal defense Doughty Street Chambers.

Structural and Legal Discrimination Cases

• The “Right to Rent” Scheme required landlords to check tenants’ immigration status, leading to widespread discrimination against UK citizens with foreign backgrounds or without passports. The High Court ruled it incompatible with human rights law, as it effectively encouraged racial bias, even against legal residents, and harmed minority ethnic renters.
• Windrush Scandal victims, many Caribbean-born but long-time UK citizens, were wrongly detained or threatened with deportation due to hostile environment policies. The government held “roadshows” to collect personal accounts and address failures, highlighting systemic racism embedded in immigration enforcement.

Summary Table

Name / Case	Background / Role	Contribution or Discrimination Faced
Rudy Narayan	Guyanese barrister & activist	Fought police abuses and legal racism
Asquith Xavier	Dominican-born train guard	Ended railway “colour bar”
Avtar Singh Jouhl	Indian-born unionist campaigner	Challenged segregation and industrial discrimination
Bishop Rose Hudson-Wilkin	Jamaican-born Church leader	Overcame institutional racism and sexism; now advocates for equality
Nicola Braganza KC	Human rights barrister	Led major anti-discrimination legal victories
Catherine Meredith	Human rights solicitor	Champions marginalized immigrants and asylum seekers
Right to Rent Case	Policy affecting foreign-sounding citizens	Court ruled policy discriminatory and unlawful
Windrush Scandal	Caribbean-born citizens	Victims of wrongful detentions highlighted systemic racism and policy failure

The Danger of Blanket Statements

The idea that all foreigners are a problem is not only inaccurate, it is dangerous. It fosters division, fuels hatred, and undermines the contributions of countless individuals whose families have lived and worked in Britain for generations.

There is a legitimate debate to be had about illegal immigration and dangerous cross-channel crossings, often referred to as “boat people.” But this conversation must not be twisted into targeting law-abiding British citizens who happen to have foreign heritage or a non-English name.

Why This Rhetoric is Discriminatory and Racist

When an MP uses their platform to group all foreigners together without distinction, it crosses the line into racial discrimination. This form of rhetoric violates the principles of equality and inclusivity that Britain claims to uphold. It also risks emboldening individuals and groups who may take these statements as a licence to harass or target people in their daily lives.

Building a Campaign for Fairness and Respect

To combat this growing hostility, it is essential to launch a campaign that:

• Differentiates between immigration issues: clearly separating the challenges of illegal immigration from the rights of British citizens with foreign heritage.
• Raises awareness: educating the public about the contributions of immigrants and their descendants to the UK’s history, economy, and culture.
• Promotes responsible political speech: urging MPs and public figures to use their platforms to unite rather than divide.
• Encourages community solidarity: creating spaces for open dialogue where people can share their experiences and challenge prejudice.
• Amplifies personal stories: showing the human side of those affected by discriminatory rhetoric, highlighting shared values and aspirations.

Solutions to Migration and Illegal Migration in the UK

The UK’s immigration debate has become increasingly polarised, but practical and humane solutions must take centre stage if the country is to balance security, fairness, and compassion.

1. Distinguish Between Migrants, Asylum Seekers, and Illegal Entrants

One of the key challenges is the public misunderstanding of immigration categories:

• Migrants – People who move for work, study, or family reasons, often with valid visas.
• Asylum Seekers – Individuals fleeing persecution, war, or human rights abuses under the 1951 Refugee Convention.
• Illegal Entrants – Those entering without permission, bypassing immigration controls.

Policy must address each group separately, rather than using a one-size-fits-all approach.

2. Handling “Boat People” and Those Without Identification

Small boat crossings have become a flashpoint in the migration debate. Many arrivals claim asylum upon entry. Those without identification present a legal and security challenge. Britain should:

• Conduct Immediate Security & Identity Checks – Use biometric data, interviews, and international cooperation to establish identity.
• Prioritise Genuine Refugee Cases – If a person can show credible fear of persecution, they must be processed in line with the Refugee Convention.
• Detain Only When Necessary – Detention should be used for security risks or if there’s a serious concern of absconding, not as a blanket measure.
• Return Agreements – Strengthen agreements with safe third countries to return those not eligible for asylum.

3. Reforming the Asylum Process

Delays in processing asylum applications create limbo for both the claimant and the public. Britain can:

• Set Clear Timeframes – Process claims within a defined period (e.g., 6 months).
• Increase Resources – Hire more trained caseworkers to reduce backlogs.
• Temporary Work Permits – Allow asylum seekers to work while their case is assessed, reducing the burden on public funds.

4. Tackling Root Causes of Migration

Long-term solutions must address the factors driving people to risk dangerous journeys:

• Foreign Aid Targeting Stability – Focus aid on conflict prevention, job creation, and infrastructure in countries with high migration rates.
• Partnerships with NGOs & UNHCR – Strengthen refugee resettlement schemes from conflict zones so people do not have to make illegal crossings.
• Cracking Down on Smugglers – Use intelligence sharing to dismantle criminal networks exploiting vulnerable migrants.

5. Public Education and Community Integration

Misinformation fuels hostility. Britain can:

• Run Public Information Campaigns – Explain the differences between migration types and the UK’s legal obligations.
• Support Integration Programmes – Offer language classes, cultural orientation, and skills training to help migrants contribute to society quickly.

Legal References – UK Migration & Asylum Obligations

1. The 1951 Refugee Convention & 1967 Protocol

• The UK is a signatory, meaning it must not return refugees to a country where they face persecution (principle of non-refoulement – Article 33).
• Refugee status can be granted if there is a well-founded fear of persecution due to race, religion, nationality, membership of a particular social group, or political opinion.

2. Human Rights Act 1998

• Incorporates the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR) into UK law.
• Relevant rights include:
  • Article 2 – Right to life.
  • Article 3 – Freedom from torture and inhuman or degrading treatment (cannot deport if risk exists).
  • Article 8 – Right to private and family life (can affect deportation or refusal decisions).

3. Immigration Rules (UK)

• Govern entry, stay, and removal of foreign nationals.
• Part 11 – Asylum: details procedures, appeal rights, and criteria for refugee status.
• Part 9 – Grounds for refusal: covers security threats, serious criminality, and failure to comply with immigration controls.

4. Nationality and Borders Act 2022

• Introduced tougher measures against illegal entry and small boat crossings.
• Created a two-tier asylum system distinguishing between arrivals through “safe and legal routes” and those arriving irregularly.

5. United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) Guidelines

• Advises states to provide fair, efficient, and humane asylum processes.
• Emphasises that lack of identity documents should not automatically invalidate a refugee claim, as many flee without time to gather paperwork.

Final Thoughts

Britain’s strength has always been in its diversity and resilience. Those of us born here, regardless of our heritage or the sound of our names, are as much a part of this country as anyone else.

A campaign must send a clear message: Not all foreigners should be put in the same category. Our policies and attitudes should focus on real issues, such as illegal immigration, while protecting the dignity, safety, and rights of British citizens of all backgrounds.

“Racism and discrimination thrive in silence. It’s time to speak out, loudly, clearly, and together”.

Suggested Campaign Slogans

• “British By Birth, Respected by Right”
• “A Name Does Not Define Loyalty”
• “Judge Actions, Not Heritage”
• “Born Here, Belong Here”
• “Foreign Name, British Heart”
• “Unity Over Division”
• “Heritage is History, Not a Threat”

Further Reading & Resources:

• Racial Discrimination in the UK Immigration System | Seraphus
• UK-born children of migrants ‘feel more discriminated against’ – BBC News
• Racial Discrimination Targeting Migrants In The UK | Migrateful
• https://www.thelancet.com/journals
• Black people in UK ‘living in fear’ over racism, say UN experts | UK News | Sky News
• What Causes Prejudice against Immigrants, Scientific American
• Ilford Park Polish Home – GOV.UK
• Former Reform MP Rupert Lowe filmed making antisemitic ‘Jewish Camera’ remark at parliament | LBC
• DWP claimants under attack from ex-Reform MP