An innovative centre in Exeter is helping to improve perceptions of race and religion across the region. The Global Centre was set up three years ago by a group of charities, religious organisations and educational groups. It has now become a one-stop-shop for resources and world information and runs a range of activities to promote cross-cultural understanding. Among the population of Devon only 0.6% are from black and minority ethnic groups and most of these are concentrated in urban areas.
 | | Global Centre volunteer Waqar |
As a result many people in Devon have no direct experience of or contact with people from different cultural backgrounds. The Global Centre aims to provide the learning opportunities, insights and experiences necessary to overcome the ignorance and fear that leads to racism. "We are trying to bring the multi-cultural world into people's lives in Devon," said Global Centre co-ordinator Sue Errington. "We are trying to eradicate prejudice and racism through educating people to find out more about what is happening in the world." Many of the activities are designed to inform members of diverse religious and cultural issues. These include the popular 'World at Lunch' Thursday afternoon sessions, where members of the public discuss international subjects with a multi-cultural group.
 | | Working together at Global Centre |
As part of its 'Gown Meet Town' series, post graduate students from Exeter University deliver a range of talks, often on sensitive and controversial issues. The sessions have touched on subjects such as counter terrorism measures in London and the experiences of women in religious traditions. Ghee Bowman has been co-ordinating the series. "It has gone very well. We have had lots of people coming from the university and locally," she said. "We have had some very interesting sessions and have covered an enormous amount of ground. "These are topics that may be discussed behind closed doors, but not in a public forum especially in Exeter." The Global Centre also holds activities for pre-school children where perceptions of other cultures and races are largely formed. The youngsters are introduced to a multi-cultural experience through story telling, crafts and healthy snacks. | 
