We are pleased to announce we are now a signatory of the Business in the Community Race at Work Charter.
We know, from the Race Disparity Audit’s Ethnicity Facts and Figures website and the Business in the Community Race at Work Survey, that ethnic minorities still face significant disparities in employment and progression, and that is something that needs to change. The McGregor-Smith review has highlighted the fact that greater progress and positive outcomes are now needed to ensure all organisations benefit from the wealth of diverse talent on offer.
The Charter helps businesses improve racial equality in the workplace and is composed of five principle calls to action for leaders and organisations across all sectors. The five principle call to action are:
• Appointing an executive sponsor for race.
• Capture ethnicity data and publicise progress.
• Commit at Board level to zero tolerance of harassment and bullying.
• Make clear that supporting equality in the workplace is the
responsibility of all leaders and managers.
• Take action that supports ethnic minority career progression.
October is Black History Month and seems a great time to launch the fact that we have signed up to the Charter. Signing up means we are committing to taking practical steps to improving ethnic equality in the workplace and tackling barriers that ethnic minority people face in recruitment and progression and ensuring that our organisation is representative of British society today.
Manon Antoniazzi, Chief Executive and Clerk of the National Assembly for Wales, said:
“Signing the Charter will complement our ongoing diversity work to ensure that, as a parliamentary organisation that is for all the people of Wales, we behave as an inclusive employer, attracting and retaining talent, enabling everyone we employ to realise their full potential and that we break down the barriers that currently block opportunities for certain groups of people irrespective of their race and ethnicity. I am very excited to see our progress as we embark upon the Charter, in addition to other benchmarking and recognition activities.”
Joyce Watson AM, Assembly Commissioner with responsibility for diversity and inclusion, said:
“I am really pleased to see that the Assembly Commission is a signatory to this charter. Wales is a diverse nation as this should be reflected in its workforce. As Commissioner for Equality and People I will both promote and monitor progress.”
Elin Jones AM, Llywydd of the National Assembly for Wales, said:
“It is important that the Assembly continues to lead the way in promoting an inclusive culture throughout our organisation.
“We want to build on our record as a modern, accessible parliament with which people from a diverse range of backgrounds can easily and meaningfully interact.
“I see us signing this Charter as a valuable part of ensuring that.”
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