MISSION STATEMENT FOR BEMIS:

“As a strategic national infrastructure organisation, BEMIS aims to empower the diverse Ethnic Minority third sector. We are committed to promoting inclusion, democratic active citizenship, recognition of diversity, human rights education, and wider representation, as well as effecting a proactive role in maintaining and enhancing pathways to influence government policy in regards to equality and human rights at local, Scottish, UK and EU levels.”

VISION FOR BEMIS:

“Our vision is of a Scotland that is Equal, Inclusive, and Responsive: A society where people from the diverse communities are valued, treated with dignity and respect, have equal citizenship, opportunities and quality of life, and who actively participate in civic society.”

BEMIS, within the perspective of our vision, adopts, deploys and utilizes the following core principles in our strategy and operational planning, development and delivery:

BEMIS…

  • Recognizes and respect the diversity of diversity in all it does.
  • Seeks to foster a sense of community within, and solidarity between, minority groups.
  • Ensures that its policies and actions are clear, coherent, and consistent, and apply equally to all.
  • Embraces all without either homogenizing difference or entrenching ethnic division.
  • Does not favour any group over any other, or to entrench any racist doctrine or ethnic hierarchy.
  • Avoids any policy or action which gives offence to any stake-holders.
  • Is open to the fluidity of individuals’ self-description and to the fluidity of ethnic and other related classifications.
  • Does not seek or purport to speak on behalf of minority communities either individually or collectively, but assist them to speak for themselves.
  • Utilises consultative and inclusive approaches to facilitate effective community engagement to inform and influence local and national policies.
  • Ensures that its Board and staff is reflective of the diverse communities in Scotland.

Strategic Aims And Objectives

All of BEMIS’ strategic, planning and operational contexts will be based on a partnership approach to all equality strands promoting interaction and cooperation at all levels.

The following role and remit constitute a reflection of our vision, strategic and operational principles:

BEMIS will have three overarching strategic aims.

Overarching Strategic Objectives of BEMIS

  • To empower and build the capacity of minority formal and informal community organisations.
    • BEMIS actively develops capacity-building programs that strengthen the voluntary sector. These efforts are widely recognised, especially for empowering organisations through cascading strategies. Capacity building goes beyond training—it involves engaging communities in local and national decision-making. By promoting good practice, sharing information, and fostering networks, the sector can grow and better support the communities it serves. BEMIS prioritises inclusive approaches and continues to partner with key stakeholders to deliver development initiatives across Scotland.

  • To be a key player and proactive stakeholder in leading on lobbying and influencing policy development at all levels in relation to Ethnic Minorities and the Race Equality agenda in Scotland (strategic partnership role to the Government).
    • BEMIS supports a consultative framework for the government, advising on issues related to the voluntary sector and ensuring that community feedback is integrated into government initiatives and legislation. By strengthening strategic partnerships with the Scottish Government and relevant departments, BEMIS promotes government objectives across sectors and empowers communities to influence decisions
    • BEMIS works closely with the government to ensure that policies on equality, social justice, and community cohesion are effectively implemented. It plays a vital role in building bridges between the government, stakeholders, and the voluntary sector, fostering collaboration and ensuring that diverse communities have a voice in shaping policies

  • To help develop, promote & progress inclusive society and democratic active citizenship for all in a multicultural Scotland at Scottish, UK and European levels. In addition, be pro-active in supporting and promoting Democracy & Human Rights Education in Scotland ensuring inclusive active citizenship roles for the diverse Ethnic Minority communities.
    • The organization works to raise awareness and promote human rights across the Scottish voluntary sector by engaging with developments in the UK and Europe. It ensures relevant information is shared with local groups and encourages their active participation in shaping equality and human rights policies.
    • Additionally, it empowers community groups to build confidence, form partnerships, and have their voices heard at national and European levels. The organization also represents Scotland in forums that support and advance the equality agenda.