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https://civilservicelocal.blog.gov.uk/2018/06/20/celebrating-equality-with-equaliteas/

Celebrating equality with EqualiTeas

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EqualiTeas is a campaign run by the UK Parliament to bring communities together to explore what equality means to people today.

People all over the country are sharing their thoughts on equality, debating ideas and celebrating the Representation of the People Act 1928, which gave all women and men aged 21 and over the equal right to vote.

Badge with wording 'Votes for women'The act was the culmination of many years of campaigning by people for equal voting rights. The first petition to parliament asking for votes for women was presented in 1832, and it wasn’t until 1918 that some women gained the vote for the first time. Tea parties were historically places where women could discuss political activism without men – but thanks to voting reform, EqualiTeas events celebrate inclusivity.

There are events happening all over the country. You can find one near you on the EqualiTeas website.

Or why not create your own? Are you involved in a Scouts or Brownies pack? Maybe you support older people, or volunteer with a charity or local community group. Why not get together over tea and cake to discuss how you value equality?

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2 comments

  1. Comment by David Franks posted on

    The introduction of a CS Live session, in Blackpool, about celebrating difference included, on video, a lady of Asian background saying she wanted equal opportunity for all and, on stage, a presenter mentioning the size of the talent pool being fished from; thus, with roving mic in hand, I questioned whether the Positive Action Pathway and embRACE should be dissolved because if I, e.g., see myself as English or British, I need not apply.

    • Replies to David Franks>

      Comment by John Mark Haskey posted on

      Thank you for your comment.

      The Civil Service has an ambition to to become the most inclusive employer in the UK by 2020. As a whole we are now more diverse than at any time in our history... but we know there is still much more to do if we are to become truly representative of the people we serve, and a leader and role model for others in diversity and inclusion.

      We also have some superb senior ethnic minority role models, but not yet in anything like sufficient numbers. And whilst many departments have made great progress on LGB&TI issues, we know there remain unacceptable pockets of homophobia.

      By setting clear, inclusive career paths to senior management levels through our accelerated development programmes, including the Positive Action Pathway, we are levelling the playing field for civil servants from currently under-represented groups.

      ...we take a strong, evidence-based approach, adopting best practice and learning from empirical research on what works to improve diversity and inclusion. We have used this evidence to help shape our approach and produce a platform for further and faster progress on which we can all stand.

      The Diversity & Inclusion Strategy is the practical expression of our collective commitment to create a welcoming, inclusive workplace.

      The goal is a Civil Service where everyone feels able to bring their whole self to work and perform at their best. One that can attract, develop and retain the most diverse talent. Where openness, honesty, challenge and innovation are encouraged and valued, helping us to achieve better outcomes for all the citizens of this country.

      We would urge all civil servants to read this strategy and reflect on what they can do to help deliver its ambitious objectives.​ It is available at https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/a-brilliant-civil-service-becoming-the-uks-most-inclusive-employer