Abstract

Leicester is regarded as providing a unique model of the harmonious working of a multicultural city. This article examines the reasons for its success and the challenges faced, both to the practical working of the model and its theoretical basis (the current debate in the UK on the future of multicultural society). Critics of multiculturalism argue that the model leaves communities within the city leading 'parallel lives' and may even be a cause of youth alienation and protest. Champions argue that whatever shortcomings the model may have had in practice the alternative is enforced assimilation of different religious and cultural communities at a faster pace than they are willing to go, and will therefore be politically destabilizing. The debate has taken on added urgency since the 7/7 bombings in 2005. Professor Richard Bonney, who has lived and worked in the city for over twenty years, reviews the history of the pattern of migration to the city, the work of equal opportunities which has led to the affirming of the identities of different communities and the present practice. The implications for the debate on multiculturalism are drawn out in the conclusion.