In the UK, Black Environment Network (BEN) is seen as the key representative of the interests of ethnic minorities in the context of the built and natural heritage. We sit on key governmental and voluntary sector policy committees. The presentation will share this experience and highlight significant contributions that make an essential difference in policy and strategies for ethnic inclusion. BEN, as an organisation, is focused on ethnic minorities. But, ethnic minorities is one of many socially disadvantaged groups, and many key issues and solutions are generic. We therefore often speak out on behalf of the interest of all socially disadvantaged groups in our work. In order to strengthen the effect of policy development, BEN also produces discussion papers to fuel debate, publishes guidance and good practice examples, and provides a consultancy and advice service to support organisations working for change.

2. Mission Statement Black Environment Network works with heritage and environmental organisations to establish multicultural participation We use the word ‘black’ symbolically recognising that the black communities are the most visible of all ethnic groups We work with black, white and other ethnic minorities

5. “ Who we are and what we can achieve depends on how we see ourselves against the enormous pressure of how others see us. “ Judy Ling Wong CBE

6. Holistic Multicultural Representation and Citizenship Involvement in the 21st Century All national cultures are unique combinations of different national multicultural elements. Thinking about multiculturalism in a broad sense means including the distinct cultures of different ways of life, e.g miners, and social classes within society How shared multicultural histories are presented by cultural institutions powerfully shapes national identity and influences the life opportunities and actions of citizens

8. Increasing contact with heritage collections and sites Fun day at Culzean Castle. Scotland

9. Revealing the Influence of Different Cultures Storytelling and Jewellery Making at the Royal Museum. Edinburgh

10. New heritage sites Creating a new community forest to mark the 300th anniversary of the birth of Khalsa - the Sikh scriptures

14. “ Working with disadvantaged social groups is not about doing a favour for small groups of vulnerable people. It is about working towards the vision of an inclusive society of which we can all be proud. “ Judy Ling Wong CBE