Evidence from influencers and experts

The Commission on Race and Ethnic Disparities held its first ‘evidence session’ with expert witnesses, as part of its mission to understand the differing views and perceptions on race that are frequently highlighted in public debate.

The Commission heard from a range of voices across age groups and different ethnic backgrounds. Participants’ evidence focused on race, history, class, impacts of policy, and the terminology and language currently being used during public discourse on issues of inequality.

The session was the first of a number of opportunities the Commission will have to learn from community leaders and experts across the country, as part of its mission to examine disparities in health, education, criminal justice and employment.

Dr Tony Sewell CBE, Chair of the Commission on Race and Ethnic Disparities said:

This first evidence session was an opportunity for us to explore some of the important issues we have started to analyse as a Commission, with a range of expert ‘witnesses’. We will continue to hear evidence from individuals and groups across the country to inform our recommendations.

The Commission intends to publish an open call for evidence in due course, as part of its continued objective to hear and learn from a broad spectrum of groups and individuals nationwide.