What do two Scottish football teams, a film actor, and an acclaimed Liverpudlian comic who challenged the Prime Minister's wife all have in common? They are all committed to valuing diversity and challenging discrimination as participants in a new Glasgow University equality and diversity week, that's what.

The week entitled "One Glasgow" will be held from 20-25 February with the aim of celebrating and exploring equality and diversity issues across campus with staff, students, and members of the local community.

"One Glasgow" is an exciting programme of thought provoking and challenging events, the highlights of which include: a special 'Old Firm Alliance' Celtic and Rangers coaching session for children to tackle sectarianism and educate the next generation of football fans and players; a screening of award winning director Ken Loach's "Ae Fond Kiss" including a guest appearance of screen actor Atta Yaqub; a performance by acclaimed Liverpudlian comic Laurence Clark, a wheelchair user who has turned his own physical disability to a fertile field of comic inspiration, recently sparking controversy when asked by Cherie Blair "Do you do stand-up?".

There will also be a chance to tune into Glasgow University Student Television (GUST) to watch the "Disability Challenge" where disabled members of the University community attempt to make it across Glasgow in wheelchairs.

Principal of the University, Sir Muir Russell comments: "The aim of One Glasgow is to challenge discrimination creatively and culturally in innovative ways and to promote a wider understanding of equality and diversity issues and achievements within the University of Glasgow community. The event has adopted a positive approach using exhibitions, workshops, theatre, comedy and film. Whilst many of the activities in the programme involve popular entertainment and an element of fun, there are important messages to be considered and hopefully those attending will leave with a little food for thought.'

Sarah Tomlinson, Acting President of the Student Representative Council said: "One Glasgow will be a vibrant week involving all of the Glasgow University community, a week of fun and camaraderie, a week of challenging issues and a week of promoting diversity in all its forms. One Glasgow will bring out the best in Glasgow, its staff, students and wider community."

"Students eagerly await an event of this type, highlighting the importance of exploring diversity and challenging discrimination which we, as young people, see no need for and hope not to perpetuate."

"One Glasgow" reflects the University's ongoing commitment to equality and diversity. The University is keen to create a supportive and inclusive environment where everyone can reach their full potential and have a real opportunity to participate in and contribute to our activities and processes, free from prejudice and discrimination.

Full details of the up-to-date programme of events as part of One Glasgow can be found at: One Glasgow website.

Media Relations Office (media@gla.ac.uk)

For more details contact the University?s Media Relations Office on 0141 330-3535.

First published: 7 February 2006