As British Prime Minister Harold Wilson once said, "a week is a long time in politics," and this week has been no exception! The UK now has a new Labour government, with a record 89 ethnic minority MPs and 73% of Labour MPs who attended state schools – a big change from the previous Conservative government.

Across the Channel in France, a surprise election saw tactical voting keeping the far right from winning. But with a gridlocked parliament, the future is still uncertain. Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez praised France's 'rejection of the far right,' while Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk said the result would bring 'relief' in Ukraine.

These political wins are encouraging for those of us who believe in diversity and inclusion, but we can't afford to get complacent. As Wilson reminded us, a lot can change in a week in politics…

-Oli, Director of Marketing & Creative

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LET'S GET INTO IT 🤓

1 in 7 young Black & Asian Brits want to leave UK

Government failings, racism and economic worries mean 18 to 34-year-olds in this group are "actively exploring options to emigrate."

Why?

🔴 39% cited the cost of living crisis

🔴 28% pointed to general dissatisfaction with the government

🔴 19% said racial inequality was a factor

Racial hate crimes across England and Wales have increased by 190% in the last 10 years.

What does this mean? This exodus of young first and second generation immigrants leaving the UK poses a huge threat to the economy. With recent events such as Brexit, the housing crisis, anti-immigration sentiments, the UK is becoming a less and less desirable place for many. Ethnic minorities and LGBTQIA+ communities are feeling this most acutely. It's not hard for many young people to find more attractive prospects elsewhere, whether that's a better salary, more affordable housing and lifestyle, better work-life balance, or freedom of expression.

Why the new Prisons Minister is a big deal

UK prisons face severe overcrowding, but a new approach may bring change with James Timpson, known for employing former prisoners in his business, taking on the challenge.

So this is a good thing, right? James Timpson's appointment as Prisons Minister is promising, given his experience employing former prisoners and focusing on rehabilitation. By providing skills and jobs, Timpson aims to reduce reoffending and help ex-prisoners reintegrate, potentially alleviating overcrowding and making communities safer.

What's the problem? Some critics argue that Timpson's emphasis on second chances might embolden career criminals. However, supporters believe that rehabilitation is essential for breaking the reoffending cycle. The prison system's severe issues include overcrowding, high reoffending rates, and inadequate rehabilitation services. Additionally, court delays and past failures in the probation service complicate the situation. Timpson's success depends on tackling these challenges and improving support systems like mental health and addiction services.

US Conservative Agenda: Project 2025

Project 2025 is an initiative by the Heritage Foundation in the US, a major conservative think tank, aiming to reshape US policy.

What's all the fuss? Project 2025 has stirred up a lot of debate, to say the least. Critics are worried it could push the US backwards, or to dystopian levels, threatening civil rights, environmental protections, and social justice. While Donald Trump claims he knows nothing about the project, ex-national security adviser to former Vice President Mike Pence, Olivia Troye says he's only saying that to avoid hurting his election chances.

Should we be worried? Project 2025 is pretty alarming. If it goes through, the US might see key legislative gains rolled back, with policies that could harm diversity, inclusion, and environmental sustainability. The Heritage Foundation's strong push for this project signals a major shift towards conservative governance, which would mean fewer rights and protections for marginalised communities.

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