The talk, entitled ‘Defending Multiculturalism’, is part of a series of successful lectures providing an opportunity for the community to come together to welcome the rich diversity in the city, while recognising and valuing the benefits it brings to all of us.

Professor Tariq Modood, Director of the University Of Bristol’s Centre for the Study of Ethnicity and Citizenship, and one of the most eminent researchers, writers and speakers on the topic of multiculturalism, will be speaking at the event.  Professor Modood is author of “Still Not Easy Being British: struggles for a multicultural citizenship” (2010).

Lee Jasper, former senior political advisor to London Mayor, Ken Livingstone, and a long-standing campaigner against racism, and for social justice, will also be speaking at the event.

To mark the talk, a public statement launched on Friday [21 Oct] to welcome, celebrate and defend multicultural society has been signed by the City's political leaders, the University of Bristol’s Vice-Chancellor, Professor Eric Thomas, and Gus Baker, President of the University of Bristol Students’ Union.

The speakers said: “In light of negative comments about multiculturalism by politicians at home and abroad, and the recent murderous events in Norway, this open statement and public event is wholly appropriate. To add your name to the statement visit the epetitions website."

The public talk takes place at 7 pm (doors open at 6.30 pm) until 9 pm on Tuesday 25 October 2011 at the Council House on College Green (BS1 5TR), admission is free but contributions welcome.  For further information email dmcsbristol@gmail.com.