Asif Afridi

One of the fascinating things about the inquiry process has been travelling the country to see how civil society is making a difference in different areas. Just as local challenges are unique, the responses from community groups have been similarly varied. But, as we’ve said previously, there are also some challenges that are often shared and felt across civil society too.

Gay, lesbian, old, young, black, white, disabled… we often organise around distinct identities. But are these really helping us – or will they hold us back unless we adapt? Of course, they’re not bad very often. People organise, campaign, volunteer and donate to reduce the inequality endured by particular identity groups all the time. Much civic action like this is identity-based, whether focused on ethnic minorities, people who are disabled in particular ways, or various genders.