ABSTRACT
This chapter explores and analyzes antiracist and multicultural issues in relation to Physical Education in the National Curriculum by addressing mainly: the broad conceptual framework; the social and educational contexts; and the implications for policy and practice. Among the most crucial concepts that need to be explored are those of culture, equality, 'race', and racism. 'Race' and racism are sensitive and contentious issues, and antiracist education is often misunderstood. Racist social constructions, where they take place, are themselves an important part of the mutual defining and differentiating of groups. Racism at the cultural level can be thought of as the operation of a shared racist frame of reference. Multicultural education has many connotations going well beyond the multi-ethnic classroom and issues purely of culture. Language is a very good indicator of cultural diversity. In discussing equal access and opportunities the Final Report focuses mainly on issues to do with special educational needs, sex and gender, and cultural diversity.
