Understanding the Race Relations Act 1976

The Race Relations Act 1976 was established to prevent any form of discrimination occurring on the grounds of race. Under this act individuals are protected and shielded on the basis of colour, race, nationality etc. This Act also includes the rights for an individual who is treated less favourably because of someone’s race. The Race Relations Act 1976 makes race discrimination unlawful in employment, education, training and provision of goods, facilities and services. The Race Relations Act 1976 defines discrimination as direct, indirect and victimisation. The Race Relations Amendment Act 2000 came into force on the 2nd of April 2001. This Act requires all public authorities to make the promotion of racial equality central. This allows public

authorities to eliminate racial discrimination and to promote equality of opportunity and good relations between people of different racial groups. The amendment requires public bodies to be aware of race discrimination and completely against it in situations relating to employment, recruitment, training, promotion, discipline and dismissal. The Race Relations Amendment Act 2000 has allowed specific principles to be in place. Public bodies should assess their polices and make sure they are relevant to race equality. Public bodies should ensure that members of the public have access to information and services relating to race discrimination. Schools are also covered in places where racial discrimination should be prevented. Primary schools, secondary schools, hospitals, social services, colleges must all follow through their duties. Under both the Race Relations Acts an individual aswell as an organisation can be held liable for acts of discrimination. For example section 32 of the Race Relations Act 1976 made employers vicariously liable for acts of unlawful discrimination by their employees, despite whether the employer knew about the unlawful acts.