Racism, in all its forms, remains a part of our society. Structurally, it exists when Black workers get paid less than someone else doing the same job or when they are passed over for jobs, that less qualified colleagues are appointed to. It exists when you’re more likely to be fined for breaching Coronavirus restrictions if you’re Black. And it exists too in the disproportionate impact of COVID-19 on frontline workers from ethnic minority backgrounds.
Managing our bias
Being actively anti-racist starts with examining our own biases. Understanding that as humans we are all programmed through our environment and societal influences. Often, we are stimulated by sub-conscious beliefs that can result in othering. When we begin to actively question our biases and explore our blind spots, we are taking positive steps toward identifying and exploring old, entrenched ideas that unwittingly colour our beliefs and actions.
Being actively anti-racist means, being comfortable calling out racist speech or actions whenever we witness it. We can all choose to challenge, to safely intercede in situations where racist behaviour or practice is exhibited. This could be addressing a family member or work colleague or challenging a policy that could result in less inclusive outcomes for others.
Being actively anti-racist starts with getting to a place where you feel comfortable with being uncomfortable, to openly address racial topics and related disparities. It is not uncommon for people to want to stay in the safe zone and use phrases such as ‘I don’t see colour’, ‘I don’t have a racist bone in my body’, ‘I have Black friends’. To the speaker, these comments are a demonstration of being non-racist and inclusive. However, to be actively anti-racist means you first must resist the urge to deny the lived experience of many People of Colour, and be open to understanding and addressing, the disparities that exist within the wider context of white supremacy and white privilege.
March offers two key dates where we invite you to demonstrate a commitment to creating a truly inclusive society, by becoming an Actively Anti-Racist Ally.
8 March 2021: International Women’s Day
International Women’s Day has a theme, which continues throughout the year, to provide a meaningful framework to connect and amplify action. We love this year’s theme, #ChooseToChallenge it aims to inspire us all to call out gender bias and inequality.
Let us all choose to challenge and call out gender inequality where it exists. Choose to speak out and advocate for greater equality and inclusion. Be colour brave and celebrate our trailblazing women of colour. To quote Ava DuVernay: “If your dream only includes you, it’s too small”. Collectively, we can all help create a more inclusive world. Celebrate International Women’s Day with us on our LinkedIn Page.
21 – 27 March 2021: International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination
The International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination is observed annually on the day the police in Sharpeville, South Africa, opened fire and killed 69 people at a peaceful demonstration against apartheid "pass laws" in 1960.
This year, the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination is focused on the midterm review of the International Decade for People of African Descent. The Decade approached its half-way mark in 2020, the review will take stock of the progress made so far and decide on further necessary actions. What headway have you made toward eliminating racial discrimination?
How we can help your organisation become actively anti-racist
Anti-racism work can be uncomfortable. We know that anti-racism work, if done well, will encounter resistance and provoke varying levels of discomfort. We encourage you to use this experience as an opportunity to learn something about yourself and question what you believe. Explore the discomfort, otherwise, you won’t learn and grow. And without growth, there can be no change. Metis offers consultancy and facilitation that can support you and your organisation to become an Ally for Change, actively anti-biased and anti-racist.
What participants have said about our Allyship work
“It was a useful and inspiring session with examples that helped me understand the issues”
“Very useful session which stimulates personal reflection on behaviours and how to provide greater allyship in the future”
“Excellent. Thought-provoking and challenging”
Contact Metis
Website: https://www.metisconsulting.co.uk/contact
E-mail: maxine@metisconsulting.co.uk
Contact number: +44 7939 018 526
