Abstract
The framework sets out how the Scottish Government aims to achieve its ambition for advancing race equality, tackling racism, and addressing the barriers to opportunity for people from minority ethnic communities. The most relevant section to community sport can be found in the ‘Participation and Representation’ section, particularly action 13 which aims to ‘promote inclusiveness and participation by making better connections between minority ethnic communities, organisations and institutions involved in heritage, culture, sport and media’.
Methodology
The framework was developed by the Scottish Government with support from the Coalition for Racial Equality and Rights (CRER). A wide range of organisations and individuals, from grassroots community organisers to practitioners, as well as minority ethnic representatives, contributed to identifying key issues and themes. The development, implementation and monitoring of the framework is built on this long-term, partnership-based approach.
Key Findings
Scotland’s vibrant culture and sports sector presents a great opportunity for broadening participation to a wide range of audiences. There are additional opportunities to promote community cohesion through enabling interaction and increasing diversity of both staff and participants. To achieve this goal, the Scottish Government will advance their work with SportScotland, the Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC), and other partners to reduce inequality and increase participation of minority ethnic communities in physical activity and sport.
Interpretation
The framework provides a policy context that highlights race inequality as an important priority for the Scottish Government. It also promotes community sport as an important vehicle for community cohesion and reducing barriers to participation and representation for minority ethnic communities. Sport organisations and clubs should seek to align themselves with the vision outlined in the framework by encouraging an inclusive and diverse environment within their own settings.
