Equality in the New Normal: a fair future or perpetuating inequality?

At the RSA, we believe the Covid-19 challenge can be an opportunity for positive change. We are working on new ideas that can make sure the recovery builds bridges to a better future.

During the pandemic, many feel that inequality has not been a prime concern. For many, governments and businesses operating in ‘survival mode’, have not prioritised diversity and inclusion. Yet, coronavirus has disproportionately impacted BAME communities.

Recent data shows that number of deaths of NHS staff have been greater in ethnically diverse communities, and BAME people are 54% more likely to be fined for breaching the lockdown.

As we look to the future, it is essential that solutions to the crisis do not perpetuate and aggravate structural inequalities. This July, RSA Fellow Vijay Luthra will lead a panel discussion to explore these inequalities, and discuss where power lies, the data we currently have, and potential interventions.

The aim of this discussion is to catalyse the RSA Fellowship and beyond to initiate interventions to understand how we create a new and fair future for BAME communities in the UK.

Panel:

Vijay Luthra FRSA (chair)

Lord Simon Woolley – Founder of Operation Black Vote

Perminder Mann – Founder and CEO of Bonnier Books

Paul Cleal OBE – Vice-Chair Kingston University, Non-Executive Director Guys & St Thomas Hospital, Sainsburys Foundation Advisory Board, Premier League Equality Standard, Board Member of the National Citizen Service Trust, Founding Partner of Impact X Capital.

Sarah Churchman OBE – Chief Inclusion, Community and Wellbeing Officer, PwC

This event is taking place during a week-long series of Bridges to the Future Conversations, hosted by the RSA and with our communities of changemakers. At the RSA, we unite people and ideas to resolve the challenges of our time and recognise that crisis can be an opportunity for positive change. As we contend with the Covid-19 crisis, we are bringing people together to unlock ideas and innovation in the areas of society that must thrive, now and in the future.

Join our community to help us create real, lasting change: http://thersa.org/bridges-future #RSAbridges