About Us

CERES is an interdisciplinary research Centre for the study of ‘race’, ethnicity, languages, culture and migration.

Associates and partners of CERES draw our conceptual base from critical social justice theories and approaches.  While respecting individual forms of prejudice, Centre members focus our research on the cultural and institutional processes which impact on the life-chances of marginalised individuals and groups. We draw from a range of theorists such as  Bourdieu, Marxism, Friere, Dewey, the Frankfurt and Chicago schools, critical race studies, feminist theory, post-colonial writings and queer theory.  In addition, the group is interested to develop their research and theorizing in the area of intersectionality (multiple identities/across issues).

The Vision

CERES’s main objective is to contribute to the processes that enable people to be treated with respect, fulfil their potential and have equitable experiences by:

• Progressing and embedding issues of social justice, rights and anti-discriminatory practice in society and its institutions
• Working with children, families and communities to contribute towards participation and self-emancipation

Working Towards the Vision…

The Centre draws its expertise from a range of people who have promoted equity and challenged discrimination in various ways in Scotland and beyond. Some are academics, others practitioners within the public, voluntary and private sector but all are activists in challenging prejudice and discrimination.

The Centre carries out a range of activities. These activities occur in various contexts and include:

•  Undertaking research and development, consultancy and training
• Producing books, briefings, journal articles, training materials
• Organising seminars, conferences and forums
• Analysing and commentating on local/national/international policy and legislative developments and disseminating examples of innovative approaches
• Providing advice to policy makers, practitioners and the public