Understanding and respecting ethnic minority culture is half the equation.

Was pleased to read in the Voice HERE the Conservative party has issued guidelines to its members on how to interact with members of the ethnic community. The tips ranged from what not to do when using chopsticks to how to remember that some Muslims don’t shake hands with the opposite sex.

The move came about as a result of a four – page guide paper published by Operation Black Vote (OBV). OBV’s guide paper was undoubtedly the result of a recent study carried out by the Caribbean Council, where it found in 168 English seats the number of self –identifying Caribbean is greater than the sitting MPs’ parliamentary majority in the 2010 general election.

Conservatives and Politicians of all hue learning how to win over and culturally engage with members of the ethnic minority community is a good thing, but winning over the ethnic vote is not just about understanding cultural differences and the proper etiquette. It’s about having a frank and open conversation. It’s about listening and hearing what is being said. It’s a two way sincere dialogue.

Politicians need to listen and BMEs must all register and use the power of their vote if they want to make an impact.

If you are not already registered, please do, your vote is your voice.