Inspirational words from a mother whose daughter was murdered simply for looking different spurred Pendle students to raise fund for the charity set up in Sophie’s name.
Her daughter was beaten to death by a gang of teenagers in 2007 because of her Gothic looks and ever since, Sylvia has dedicated her life to stamping out hate crime.
After learning about the Sophie’s death and the charity set up in her name, the Foundation Learning students worked together to organise a Celebrating Difference event which included craft stalls, musical entertainment, pop up dance and music performances, a fashion show, food from around the world, hair styling demonstrations and henna designs.
“We were delighted with how hard the students worked to put together such a varied programme of events on the night and we would like to thank all the performers and stall holders, and everyone who supported them in raising over £500 for the charity. A worthy cause and a fantastic celebration of difference. ”
Sylvia Lancaster visited Nelson and Colne College’s Foundation Learning students to tell them about the work the Sophie Lancaster Foundation does to eliminate prejudice, hatred and intolerance.“The students organised a fantastic, diverse event which celebrated different cultures, fashions, music and lifestyles,” said Sue Hartley, Foundation Programmes Tutor and Event Coordinator from Nelson and Colne College. “Sylvia also spoke to guests at the event to give them an insight into the work she does to challenge the prejudice and intolerance people from alternative subcultures can suffer.
