The event’s aims were to:
- promote the cause of cultural diversity in the South East by showcasing the contribution that its ethnically diverse communities make to the region’s culture
- highlight the value of cultural activity in promoting social inclusion and community well-being
- offer networking opportunities for those working in the cultural sectors and the multi-ethnic business community
The programme included a mixture of interviews, presentations and performances with a keynote speech by Home Office Minister Baroness Scotland as the highlight.
The event was compered by the BBC radio presenter Henry Bonsu and contained some spectacular performances of Indian bhangra dancing by the 4x4 bhangra group from Gravesend; Chinese dancing by the children of the Woking Chinese Association; and Afro-Caribbean singing by artists from the educational project Music for Change.
There were also contributions from Brighton-based history researcher Bert Williams; Florence Andrews, Active Communities Co-ordinator with Slough Borough Council; Marilyn Scott of Woking Galleries; Lesley Wake from Arts and Business South East; and Munnir Ahmed, who trains young people to play the traditional Indian sport of kabaddi. The cultural agencies Screen South, Arts Council England South East, Sport England South East, the South East Museum, Library and Archive Council and English Heritage also made valuable contributions to the event with displays and live interviews.
Common Futures was well received with very positive feedback from both the cultural agencies and partners. Highlights have been put onto CD-ROM. If you would like a copy please telephone us on 01483 882275 or email info@culturesoutheast.org.uk.
