Increasing ethnic minority representation in public life

The scheme is part of Operation Black Vote's (OBV) drive to increase ethnic minority representation in the decision making process that steers the country.

Over the next six months ten people from Black and ethnic minority communities will shadow CRE Commissioners as they attend key meetings, address conferences, liaise with government departments and community groups as well as learn about the role of the CRE.

Simon Woolley, Director, OBV said: 'It is vitally important that our decision-making bodies begin to reflect the communities they seek to serve. We know that there is a deluge of talent, which if afforded the opportunity, will enhance British society. The scheme, a joint OBV / CRE initiative, will build on the success of previous OBV shadowing schemes which have successfully demystified the roles of MPs and magistrates and produced a growing number of magistrates, school governors and councillors. Five graduates from the MP shadowing scheme stood for Parliament in the recent general election. At the end of the shadowing period participants will apply for public office. "

Trevor Phillips, CRE, Chair, said: "Experience has shown us that one of the best ways to motivate communities with little representation in senior positions of employment is to give them direct access to people doing the jobs. It fosters self-belief and a realisation that with hard work and talent, careers in top jobs are achievable. OBV's schemes have led to increased participation in professions traditionally perceived as 'white only' and reinforce the principle that someone's origin does not need to dictate their destiny."

Speakers at the event included Simon Woolley, OBV, Trevor Phillips, CRE Chair, Lord Herman Ouseley and Baroness Pola Uddin.

ENDS.