The ethnic population of East Riding, as measured in the 2001 census was 2.4%, of which half described themselves as other White (e.g. Irish, other European) and half as Black and minority ethnic groupings (BME). The largest groups are currently Indian and Chinese.

Race equality is not only confined to large cities and towns, as rural areas have ethnic minority residents too. Research has shown that ethnic minority communities living in rural areas have often suffered significant levels of racial discrimination and harassment. Members of ethnic minorities are also visitors, tourists, students or refugees and asylum seekers. Any one of these groups are vulnerable to racial discrimination or harassment.

The Audit Commission has identified that a good understanding of diversity within local communities is vital in order to meet the needs of different communities and is a key building block for improvement.