Sharing Best Practice on Diversity 2007
Public Sector Providers hosted a conference called Sharing Best Practice on Diversity on 12 June 2007 at the National Motorcycle Museum, Birmingham. The conference included a mix of high profile keynote speakers and structured opportunities for delegates to share best practice with each other.
Ben Summerskill, Chief Executive of Stonewall, opened the conference by talking about the successes that have been achieved in terms of bringing sexual orientation issues to legislation – both in terms of employment (December 2003) and in the supply of goods and services (April 2007). There is still much work to be done, however, and Ben also spoke about the role that monitoring for sexual orientation has to play.
Karin Woodley, Chief Executive of the Stephen Lawrence Charitable Trust gave a challenging speech called “Exorcising Vampires”. Karin talked about the need for public services to involve communities in a much more realistic way when making decisions that impact on people from different ethnic groups.
Professor Germaine Greer, feminist, writer and broadcaster, spoke about the need for public services to uncover the misogyny she feels is at its heart, and eradicate it. Her controversial speech made many people uncomfortable, but all agreed she had made them think!
In addition to the speakers, delegates were able to share best practice with each other on key areas such as Monitoring and Consultation.
“Everything was superb.”
“Great opportunity to learn from other organisations.”
“Exceeded expectations – fantastic session from Germaine Greer”
“Excellent range of speakers.”
“Plenty to take back to the workplace and think about – thank you.”
