How did it all start?

The idea of establishing a way of representing the ethnic minority communities was first discussed at the Aberdeen City Council’s Women’s and Equal Opportunity Committee 1996. Representatives from ethnic minority communities and council departments then met in 1997 to discuss this idea. They agreed to develop an Ethnic Minority Forum.  The first meeting of the Ethnic Minority Forum took place in February 1998. Three priorities were identified: employment, housing and racially motivated crime.  It was during that period that Grampian Police became involved. Between 1998 and 2001 more issues were identified through further meetings and consultation activities. The issues were collated into a Racial Equality Agenda for Action and classified under the following broad headings: Employment Education & Training Housing Community Safety Health and Social Care A more detailed strategy and action plan evolved from the Racial Equality Agenda for Action with measurable actions and agreed racial equality outcomes. The Plan, 'Aberdeen: A City of Cultural Diversity', was launched in May 2002 during a meeting of the Ethnic Minority Forum.  The Plan was an integral part of Aberdeen City Council’s Race Equality Scheme. A further meeting of the meeting took place in 2003. In 2004, an open day to raise awareness and promote good relations took place in the Cowdray Hall. A Planning for Real (PfR) exercise also took place to ensure a greater and more comprehensive participation. Aberdeenshire Council took part in the event and is now an established member of the Forum. Other key agencies also joined then.

Structure

All events and activities of the Ethnic Minority Forum are planned and organised by a Steering Group. The Steering Group produced a working agreement. The document outlines the aims, objectives, and membership ...  etc to ensure the efficient running of the Forum’s activities.  Read the Ethnic Minority Forum Constitution

Who can join?

Ethnic minority communities, Agencies and Individuals who share the aims and objectives of the Forum are welcome to join.

How often does the Forum meet?

The Forum meets at least twice a year. The Steering Group meets every 8 weeks, Members discuss issues relevant to ethnic minority communities in Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire.

Who are the members of the steering group?

Members include representatives from: Aberdeen Chinese Association Aberdeen City Council Aberdeen Muslim Women Group Aberdeenshire Council British Red Cross Grampian Fire and Rescue Service Grampian Police Grampian Racial Equality Council The International Centre Independent members Multi Ethnic Aberdeen Limited The Scottish Ambulance Service The Forum has also associate members including: Aberdeen Chinese Community Centre Aberdeen Elderly Chinese Association Aberdeen Group of Interpreters The Pakistani Women’s Group Asian Social and Cultural Society Bahais of Aberdeen The Bangladeshi Association The Caribbean Association Chinese Welfare Group The Filipino Community Association The Malay Woman Support Group and others