This presentation discusses the changing demographics of Birmingham and the West Midlands region. It notes that Birmingham will become a minority-majority city within the next two decades, with the fastest growing ethnic groups being those of mixed or multiple heritages. It also discusses high levels of poverty and deprivation affecting many communities, including white working-class communities. It argues that an integrated approach is needed to achieve equality that treats all people with fairness, dignity, and respect regardless of their identities.

1. Beyond being statistically challenged Chris Allen, BRAP A presentation given at State of the Region: Implications of Population Change event, 31 March 2009. This presentation forms part of the Observatory’s ongoing State of the Region dialogue between policy makers and researchers on the theme of population change.

2. Beyond Being Statistically Challenged: How do we move the equalities agenda forward? Dr Chris Allen Director of Research & Policy, BRAP 31st March 2009

10. Contact details Chris Allen Director of Research and Policy BRAP E [email_address] T 0121 456 7409 Web www.brap.org.uk Stephen Howarth Deputy Chief Executive West Midlands Regional Observatory E [email_address] T +44 (0)121 202 3258 Web www.wmro.org Blog http://wmro.wordpress.com Rosie Day Research Analyst West Midlands Regional Observatory E [email_address] T +44 (0)121 202 3286 Web www.wmro.org Blog http://wmro.wordpress.com