Diversity
The population of the United Kingdom today is rich and diverse, made up of many cultures, communities, nationalities, languages and traditions. Diversity brings a wealth of difference that adds to the overall contribution to the society that we live in, work in and a part of.
Equality
The right to receive equal treatment taking account of individual needs. There are several pieces of legislation that promote equality:
- Race Relations Act 1076 – makes it unlawful to discriminate against people on the grounds of race, colour, nationality, and national or ethnic origin.
- Sex Discrimination Act 1976 – masks it unlawful to discriminate on the grounds of a persons sex in employment, education or when providing goods or services.
- Disability Discrimination Act 1996 – makes it unlawful to treat disabled people less favourably than other people for a reason related to their disability.
CEHR (Commission for equality and human rights)
The proposed body will replace the existing Commission for Racial Equality, Disability Rights Commission and Equal Opportunities Commission.
The CEHR will be 'a source of expertise on equalities and Human Rights issues'. It will have responsibility for promoting equality of opportunity. It will be working towards eliminating unlawful discrimination and harassment of people, in all specified groups, protected by equality law.
The Government intends to appoint the Chair and Commissioners by 2006 so that the body will be up and running in 2007. A process of phased entry is anticipated for the existing Commissions, with all of them being incorporated by 2008/09.
For more information
If you would like to find out more information on equality and diversity issues you can visit the following websites:
Find more information on the Commission for Racial Equality's site.
The Disability Rights Commission has the goal of a society where all disabled people can participate fully as equal citizens.
The Equal Opportunities Commission is the leading agency working to eliminate sex discrimination in 21st Century Britain.