Individuals from black and minority ethnic groups are likely to have experienced harassment, racial discrimination and institutional racism. Racism causes significant harm and may be categorised as a form of emotional abuse. Recent legislation has made racism illegal.

Equal opportunity should be provided for all, regardless of gender, race, religion or culture and ethnic, and ethnic minority groups must be afforded protection from all forms of racial discrimination. Through adherence to the BYAFA Equity Policy, problems such as discrimination to ethnic minorities should be avoided.