">At a time when voter and political apathy is being discussed on both sides of the Atlantic, the National Institute of Adult Continuing Education (NIACE) - in partnership with the Black Training and Enterprise Group (BTEG) - is holding a conference which will look at issues around self-help, adult education and political participation for black and minority communities.
At a time when voter and political apathy is being discussed on both sides of the Atlantic, the National Institute of Adult Continuing Education (NIACE) - in partnership with the Black Training and Enterprise Group (BTEG) - is holding a conference which will look at issues around self-help, adult education and political participation for black* and minority communities.
The conference, Black Self-Help, Education and Influencing the Political Agenda, will educate, inform and challenge political parties and cross-sector organisations on the key issues affecting black communities. The event aims to encourage and advocate greater participation in politics and decision-making by people who feel largely un-represented by the political process.
Lenford White, NIACE Race Equality Development Officer, said, "Political apathy doesnŽt just rest with the voter, thereŽs a responsibility from politicians to engage more as well. This conference will highlight the issues that are of primary importance and concern to black communities. Adult education has an important role to play in helping and equipping people to engage with political processes to effect change".
He continued, "WeŽll be celebrating adult learning achievements by identifying what has previously worked, illustrating the power, innovation and potential of black individuals and communities and discussing the kind of impact things like the Race Relations Amendment Act (2000) and the Stephen Lawrence Inquiry have had."
Amit Popat, Head of Policy Development at BTEG said, "We need to educate and inform political parties in light of the upcoming 2005 General Election. This conference will facilitate and enable the dynamic engagement of delegates and will help shape a manifesto, which will highlight the key political issues for black communities. We will identify what strategies or policies political parties are developing to effectively engage black communities, particularly those which will increase the control communities have over their political and economic destinies."
More information is available from Sarah Ellix, NIACE Community Learning Secretarial Assistant, on +44-116 204 4217 or
sarah.ellix@niace.org.uk
