
Understanding structural inequality: theory, evidence, data and storytelling is one of the four strands that are part of our initiative on ‘Tackling structural race inequality in HE’, which will run through our member benefits for 2020-21.
This strand will begin by helping people to explore the concepts of structural race inequality, and how different understandings about equality might impact the way in which we take action.
It will highlight work and knowledge within the sector (and beyond) and critically reflect on issues such as use of data (including categorisation), the strength of story, and how discourses can enable or harm understandings.
Understanding structural inequality
Theory, evidence, data and storytelling is part of our member benefit theme ‘Tackling structural race inequality in higher education’.

Outputs for this strand
There are three outputs to this strand including a webinar, blog and publication which will provide in depth information on theory, evidence, data and storytelling around structural inequality.
Webinar 22 January – Understanding structural inequality: data and storytelling for action
What are the challenges and limitations of a data-drive approach? What is the power and role of story and counter story from individuals who study and work within our structures? And, importantly, how does the way we all discuss structural inequality impact on the way we approach change and action?
Blog - What is structural racism
Publication – Understanding Structural Racism in Higher Education: an introduction

Additional support related to this strand from Advance HE
Tackling racism on campus: Raising awareness and creating the conditions for confident conversations (funded by the Scotland Funding Council)
An Advance HE Project funded by SFC and led by an expert group of EDI practitioners, academics, tertiary education staff and students in response to findings highlighted in the EHRC inquiry report.

Tackling structural race inequality in higher education
There are three other strands in support of this member benefit:
- Honest, brave and open conversations about race
- Decolonising identity
- Meeting the challenge: supporting senior leaders in conversation, change and accountability in addressing race

