Established in 1996, Operation Black Vote (OBV) is a national, non-partisan organisation. All the main political parties have recognised the work of OBV in helping to encourage the positive engagement of Black and minority ethnic (BME) communities and in helping to address BME under-representation in political and public bodies. Written by OBV's deputy director Francine Fernandes, the chapter begins by sharing her early motivations for becoming politically active. It then outlines the political backdrop of BME representation in the UK, reveals particular patterns of BME disengagement and outlines the societal and policy consequences that this creates. Despite the bleak picture, this is a narrative that fundamentally believes that the systemic inequalities can be challenged through positive political activity. The chapter closes with examples of OBV's work that demonstrate that many BME individuals want to engage, and do engage when presented with the opportunity, and celebrates those who have moved from being political bystanders to being political activists.

Introduction

I am the deputy director of OBV, a leading national not-for-profit campaign group established to address the BME democratic deficit. This democratic deficit refers to the lack of BME political participation and representation within the political discourse. Through raising political awareness and promoting political education, OBV seeks to persuade BME communities to recognise their power and to inspire them to participate positively, for the benefit of all communities.

Think global, act local

Politics has been a lifelong interest for me, with my political awareness sparked when I was a child. At the time I would not have classed it as politics but, reflecting upon it, I realise that my upbringing was one of the catalysts for my desire to make a difference.

I grew up in Kenya and was fortunate to receive a good education and enjoy a good standard of living. I was lucky to enjoy many privileges and therefore, in a way, did not have an urgent need to fight. However, the overwhelming economic and racial inequities were too strong to ignore.

Beautiful mansions set back from the road with huge, immaculate private gardens were flanked by shanty towns that offered the most basic of accommodation. A simple construction of mud walls and corrugated roofs fashioned into a one- or two-room facility for a family of four was very commonplace.