Perspectives on sectarianism in Scotland

There are many points of view about the nature and existence of sectarianism in Scotland. Much of what has been written has focused on analysing the anti-Catholic form of sectarianism. Very little has been written about anti-Protestant sectarianism or sectarianism within other faiths.

Both anti-Catholic and anti-Protestant prejudice exists in Scotland. The hurt and discrimination felt by individual Protestants and Catholics who are on the receiving end of prejudice, harassment, bigotry and violence must not be denied. However, Finn (2003: 904) argues that the history of each form of prejudice is not identical.

For those who have never experienced the realities of sectarianism, another way to consider this is to reflect upon an issue like 'race' which has perhaps been more openly discussed because of the existence of the Race Relations Act 1976 and the Race Relations (Amendment) Act 2000. Racist comments directed at minority ethnic or majority ethnic peoples will hurt and scar the individuals and communities concerned. However, the origins of anti-white and anti-black prejudices are different and have to be analysed through an understanding of colonialism and imperialism. To fail to do so would be to misunderstand the origins and dynamics of racism and its contribution to present day racial prejudices and tensions.

Equally, people, regardless of their denomination (e.g. Protestant or Catholic) will experience hurt, abuse and discrimination if they are targets of sectarianism. The feelings of individuals who are subject to sectarianism should not be underestimated. However, the root causes of anti-Catholic sectarianism within Scotland must be examined through an analysis of the impact of Reformation, the history of colonialism, imperialism and racism with regard to anti-Irish.