Courageous Conversations about Race
Join us for an engaging and transformative evening of open dialogue on race and equity.
In a safe and inclusive virtual space, we invite participants to share their experiences, perspectives, and insights on various topics related to race relations and social justice.
Facilitated by experienced moderators, this event encourages participants to engage in open, honest, and respectful conversations.
Together, let's explore ways to dismantle systemic barriers and create a more just and equitable society for all.
Don't miss out on this opportunity to be a part of Courageous Conversations about Race. Reserve your spot today!
Limited places available - click here to register your place
Next Meeting:
Listening with empathy. Learning through truth. Acting for change
Tuesday 18th
November 2025
6.00 pm to 7.30 pm via Zoom
Event Details
Join Equality and Diversity UK for a powerful and important conversation as we welcome Mr Luke Burton, who will courageously share his lived experience of discrimination, harassment, and institutional bias.
Luke’s story shines a light on how power, perception, and prejudice can intersect to harm those simply trying to live peacefully in their communities.
Our role as listeners
This session is an opportunity to listen, reflect, and ask:
- How could this have been prevented?
- Where did systems fail?
- What can we do to ensure others are not treated the same way?
- How can we help resolve this for Luke and others like him?
We invite you to approach this space with empathy, confidentiality, and commitment to making local systems fairer, safer, and more transparent for everyone.
Understanding the Wider Context
Racial Discrimination Against Gypsy, Roma, and Traveller (GRT) Communities in the UK
GRT communities are recognised ethnic groups under the Equality Act 2010 and experience some of the highest levels of prejudice and systemic inequality in Britain.
Key evidence:
- Widespread hostility: Over 90% of GRT people report discrimination in daily life (EHRC, Is England Fairer? 2022).
- Education gap: Only 8% of Gypsy/Roma pupils achieve GCSE English and Maths, compared to 49% of all pupils (DfE, 2023).
- Employment inequality: GRT adult employment rates remain below 40% (ONS, 2023).
- Policing and perception: GRT people are often “over-policed and under-protected” (APPG on Gypsies, Travellers & Roma, 2022).
Luke’s experience mirrors these patterns of neighbour harassment, agency intervention, and institutional bias, reminding us how cultural stereotypes can shape enforcement behaviour and public attitudes.
Policy and Practice Implications
- Apply the Public Sector Equality Duty proactively.
- Deliver anti-racism and cultural competence training for all enforcement agencies.
- Establish trusted liaison roles and community advocates to ensure fair communication and treatment.
- Implement trauma-informed and neurodivergence-aware approaches in all investigations.
Together, We Can Make a Difference
After hearing Luke’s account, we’ll open the floor for reflection and practical ideas for positive change.
Please join us on Tuesday 18 November at 6:00pm via Zoom.
We look forward to welcoming everyone who has registered.
Working towards fairness, inclusion, and equality for all.
Why Equality and Diversity UK?
Equality and Diversity UK, in operation since 1997, works nationally and internationally to promote equity, diversity, and inclusion in education, employment, health services, and communities.
By engaging in courageous conversations about race, we believe we can shape a better future for all.
Join us in a Transformative Event
Imagine a world where every child feels included, psychologically safe, and supported within and outside the school walls. Envision a future where allies stand up against racial abuse, ensuring equal opportunities for everyone.
Our Vision: Breaking Chains
Join us to break the chains of racial discrimination, harassment, victimisation, bullying, anger, or isolation. Let's create a space where children and young people can thrive unburdened by the harsh realities of discrimination and inequality.
Your Support Matters
Unfortunately, racial discrimination persists in our local communities, pushing many families into painful acts of code-switching and assimilation. Your support can make a lasting impact on the lives of those who need it the most. Let's Build a community
Sign up now to be part of this transformative journey towards a future where every child and family has the chance to thrive, unburdened by the harsh realities of discrimination and inequality.
Join us in creating a community where everyone can live with dignity, respect, and equal opportunities.
To register, please complete the registration form below