Our mission
We work for a just and integrated society, where diversity is valued. We use both persuasion and our powers under the law to give everyone an equal chance to live free from fear of discrimination, prejudice and racism.
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This page was last updated on 04 June 2007
The Commission for Racial Equality was set up under the 1976 Race Relations Act. It receives a grant from the Department for Communities and Local Government, but works independently of government.
The CRE has three main duties:
The CRE is not an inspectorate and does not have the power to 'police' racial equality. However, it has been given some powers to help enforce the Race Relations Act.
The CRE can provide legal advice and assistance to people who think they have been discriminated against. It should be noted that the CRE does not rule on whether or not discrimination has occurred: this is for an employment tribunal or a court to decide.
The CRE also has powers under the Race Relations Act to investigate companies or organisations where there is evidence of possible discrimination, and require them to make changes to their policies and practices. It can also take legal action against companies or organisations in certain specific circumstances (for example, if they have published a discriminatory advertisement).
The Race Relations Act applies in England, Wales and Scotland. It does not apply in Northern Ireland, where the Race Relations (NI) Order 1997 applies (for further information, see the Equality Commission for Northern Ireland's website). The CRE's work covers all the areas where people are protected against discrimination under the Race Relations Act.
In addition to exercising its statutory powers, the CRE also works to reduce discrimination and promote equality by seeking to educate and inform the public, and to influence policy and practice in all institutions.
The CRE by itself cannot achieve racial equality; but by working with government bodies, public and private organisations, and the general public, it hopes to influence attitudes, promote good practice, and so encourage good race relations.
To this end, the CRE: