The General Public
Celebrating South East Essex Diverse Cultural Community
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The General Public believes in an Essex where everyone belongs and thrives. Our mission is to shine a light on the rich diversity of our community, celebrating the contributions of people of all backgrounds, especially those who have often been underrepresented.
We must ensure that people of colour and those from cultural and religious background have access to the same opportunities, resources and spaces that all members of the general public deserve.​
​Southend is home to over 22,000 non-white residents and a vibrant community where 57% of people practice religions outside of Christianity.
Our vision is to create a truly inclusive Southend where every person – regardless of race, culture, or faith – feels valued and empowered. We aim to build a community that acknowledges and celebrates the shared experiences and unique contributions of everyone.
![Friends On A Walk](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/11062b_ca7e5605e7f3421f8303f0f9b7d27ad9~mv2.jpeg/v1/fill/w_473,h_315,al_c,q_80,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,enc_avif,quality_auto/11062b_ca7e5605e7f3421f8303f0f9b7d27ad9~mv2.jpeg)
![Man Painting a Wall](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/11062b_ed6ccfc00e6b470484e601030e5d245c~mv2.jpeg/v1/fill/w_473,h_315,al_c,q_80,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,enc_avif,quality_auto/11062b_ed6ccfc00e6b470484e601030e5d245c~mv2.jpeg)
One United Voice at the Table!
Our Story
Diversity is Southend’s Strength
he​ General Public exists to break down barriers and provide opportunities for all members of our diverse voices to work together and deliver cultural events, heritage initiatives and community development to implement cross-cultural understanding. Through our network and partnerships, we are creating a space where diverse community groups can collaborate to create long-lasting impact.
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By supporting the development of cultural events and initiatives that reflect the diverse make-up of our town, General Public ensures that the needs and desires of all community members are met. It is about more than just recognition – it’s about creating equal access for all who live, work and visit.
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We know that people of colour often face barriers to accessing the same opportunities as others. General Public is committed to challenging these barriers and making Southend a more inclusive place, where the cultural, economic, and social contributions of all residents are celebrated and respected.
What We Do
![Fashion Designer](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/11062b_2853f686d3b74937a3b06120b14cbec1~mv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_491,h_327,al_c,q_80,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,enc_avif,quality_auto/11062b_2853f686d3b74937a3b06120b14cbec1~mv2.jpg)
CoAction Network
CoAction, your partner in understanding and implementing Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) practices essential for companies to prioritise inclusive workplaces and communities.
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Our mission is to empower you to embrace diversity, promote equity, and cultivate an inclusive culture that values every individual, by providing tailored resources and support to help navigate the complexities of EDI.
Join us as we address recent challenges we can drive meaningful change and create a brighter future for all..
SEED Network
Joining SEED Network, you’ll connect with like minded people dedicated to sharing knowledge, resources and best practices for positive change.
This collaborative platform encourages discussions on vital topics, such as diversity, equity and social justice, enabling members to learn from one another and amplify their impact.
Whether you're just learning about EDI or dealing with racism the SEED Network provides an environment to ask questions.
Join us today and contribute to building a more equitable future for all.
![Image by Chela B.](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/nsplsh_7469785a4f46692d4c3951~mv2_d_3888_2592_s_4_2.jpg/v1/fill/w_491,h_327,al_c,q_80,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,enc_avif,quality_auto/nsplsh_7469785a4f46692d4c3951~mv2_d_3888_2592_s_4_2.jpg)
![Women in the Street](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/11062b_526823ed8dfe48c8b4dd95cf91d77be3~mv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_522,h_392,al_c,q_80,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,enc_avif,quality_auto/11062b_526823ed8dfe48c8b4dd95cf91d77be3~mv2.jpg)
EDI Movement
Join the EDI Movement, dedicated to advancing equality, diversity and inclusion as a catalyst for positive change!
By champing mandatory ethnicity and disability pay reporting and enshrining equal pay rights to close pay gaps and enhance employment rights for ethnic minorities and disabled people.
Let's champion fair opportunities for all and empower organisations to prioritise EDI in their practices.
EDI Movement
Partners in Action for Cultural Transformation.
PACT a consortium bringing together dedication to develop cultural inclusivity though events through the collaboration with like minded partners in Southend to share best practices, network, access resources and contribute to projects that enhance economic empowerment and social cohesion.
PACT allow diverse communities to co design and co deliver events representing the full spectrum of Southend’s cultural identity; hosting art exhibitions, festivals, or heritage events, to ensures that everyone has a chance to participate and lead.
![Image by "My Life Through A Lens"](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/nsplsh_0e9b906727494fa387c5687327994ae3~mv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_591,h_332,al_c,q_80,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,enc_avif,quality_auto/Image%20by%20_My%20Life%20Through%20A%20Lens_.jpg)