Posted: 31 / 10 / 2023
During this Black History Month, we had the privilege of engaging in candid conversations with some of our black colleagues. They generously shared their personal insights and experiences by answering a series of questions.
A huge thank you to all those who participated, for their willingness to open up and provide us with thought-provoking insights into their lives and journeys. In listening to their stories, we were reminded of the importance of fostering a more inclusive and equitable workplace.
Let us remember that embracing diversity and promoting inclusivity is a collective responsibility. The stories shared by our colleagues and friends highlight the need to create an environment where everyone feels valued and heard.
Can you share a personal experience when you felt like your racial identity played a significant role, either positively or negatively, in your professional life?
It’s great when an employer or initiative actively seeks out diverse perspectives, to contribute to discussions and decision-making processes. I believe that having a diverse team in the room is essential for making well-informed decisions, as it reflects the diverse world in which we live and operate.
However, with this comes the accompanying feelings of self-doubt and questioning that can arise in such situations. It creates the question of whether you are selected or asked for your genuine expertise and perspective, or whether it was merely for the sake of meeting diversity statistics. While it’s empowering to be recognised for the unique insights I can provide, the uncertainty of the motivations behind such recognition can sometimes make you question your role.
In such moments, open and transparent communication between employers and employees, as well as a commitment to genuine diversity and inclusion, can help address these concerns and foster an environment where professionals of all backgrounds feel valued for their contributions, rather than their demographics.
What are some of the key aspects of your background and experiences that have shaped your perspective on the workplace?
My upbringing taught me the value of initiative, leadership, and resilience due to early responsibilities and challenging circumstances. This has driven a strong work ethic in me, influencing how I approach the workplace. I believe in recognising and valuing everyone’s contributions, regardless of their background, and striving for an inclusive and supportive work environment.
In your opinion, what are some common misconceptions or stereotypes about black professionals that we should challenge and correct?
One common misconception is that Black professionals can be perceived as tokens within organisations, chosen for their race rather than their skills, which in turn, leads to another common misconception that Black professionals have limited skills or qualifications, which can lead to them being underestimated in their respective fields. Some people may falsely believe that Black professionals have advanced in their careers solely due to affirmative action or diversity initiatives.
What role do you believe allies can play in actively supporting black colleagues and promoting diversity and inclusion?
I believe allies can play a crucial role in actively supporting black colleagues and promoting diversity and inclusion by educating themselves about the unique challenges and experiences faced by Black individuals. Furthermore, allies can use their privilege and influence to speak up and take action when they witness discriminatory behaviour or systemic injustices rather than passively conforming to the status quo. By doing so, allies can contribute to creating a more inclusive and equitable environment where Black professionals can thrive and where diversity is genuinely embraced.
What does Black History Month mean to you?
It is important to me because it’s a dedicated time where we’re able to celebrate the contributions of black people in society.
We can delve into history and encourage people to focus on a topic which is typically understated and not represented enough in schools. As black people, we have a rich and powerful culture and history that needs to be celebrated more! By recognising black people contributing positively to society, we simultaneously fight prejudice and stereotypes against black people.
In your opinion, what are some common misconceptions or stereotypes about black professionals that we should challenge and correct?
Based on past work experiences, black people are sometimes seen as less computer literate and less intelligent, which can impact the types of jobs assigned to them. I think a lot of the time, this comes down to cultural differences, like having a different accent or speaking slower than others, which can be perceived as being less intelligent.
What role do you believe allies can play in actively supporting black colleagues and promoting diversity and inclusion?
Employ more black people and give them the tools to succeed in their roles! Take time to understand the difference between equality and equity. It’s not enough to give previously disadvantaged individuals the same platform, you have to aid them to have the same fighting chance to succeed.
What does Black History Month mean to you?
Black History Month, to me, provides an opportunity to:
- Listen to and relate to the stories and experiences of others (both positive and negative).
- Reflect and celebrate how far “we” have come, our rich history and our achievements.
- Remind ourselves of how far “we” still need to go and the ongoing fight for racial equality.
- Be inspired by role models and their journeys and feel encouraged to do more for the community.
- Reinforce the importance of diversity of inclusion in the workplace as well as the need for equitable opportunities for all races.
Can you share a personal experience when you felt like your racial identity played a significant role, either positively or negatively, in your professional life?
Working in banking and financial services meant I was often the only ethnic person in the department. I have therefore encountered a number of negative experiences, as well as more positive ones in recent years as awareness of the importance of diversity and inclusion has increased. The biggest impact of these negative experiences has been the development of “imposter syndrome” – the feeling that my success isn’t deserved or that I don’t belong amongst more privileged, non-black professionals.
What are some of the key aspects of your background and experiences that have shaped your perspective on the workplace?
- My background has instilled a strong work ethic, respect for all cultures, a humble and positive attitude and unwavering perseverance.
- My experiences within my career have taught me that emotional intelligence and leadership by way of role modelling rather than a dictatorship proves far more successful in nurturing future talent.
- Most importantly, I have learnt to have thick skin and not to take things personally – you never know what someone is dealing with outside of work.
In your opinion, what are some common misconceptions or stereotypes about black professionals that we should challenge and correct?
Some stereotypes that I have come across in my career are:
- Lack of Qualifications: People often stereotype black professionals as being less qualified or assuming they achieved their positions due to affirmative action. This is not only unfounded but also perpetuates bias.
- Sole Representation: The assumption that one black professional represents the entire black community’s experiences and perspectives. Black professionals, like anyone else, have diverse backgrounds and viewpoints.
- Inability to Lead: The belief that black professionals lack effective leadership skills, as they are overly emotive or angry.
What role do you believe allies can play in actively supporting black colleagues and promoting diversity and inclusion?
Advocate for Equal Opportunities: Advocate for policies and practices that ensure equal opportunities for all, such as fair hiring, promotions, and pay. Be an ally in addressing systemic bias.
Call Out Injustice: Don’t stay silent when you witness discrimination or microaggressions. Speak up and support those affected. Encourage open conversations about bias.
Mentorship and Sponsorship: Act as a mentor or sponsor, helping them navigate their career and providing opportunities for growth.
Celebrate Diversity: Acknowledge and celebrate cultural events, such as Black History Month, to promote understanding and unity.
Self-Reflection: Continually assess your own biases and privilege, and work on being a better ally by challenging and improving your own attitudes and behaviours.
BY DJ PAULETTE (Auntie to our Team Member, Carl Finlayson):
Regarding culture and allyship, it starts with people feeling safe enough in their environment and work culture to express what their experience is. They need to feel that they are seen and heard and that any issues will be embraced, accepted and acted upon.
It’s important to be aware of how terminology and language are used; some words feel immediately exclusive and shut the door before the work has even started…
Can you share a personal experience when you felt like your racial identity played a significant role, either positively or negatively, in your professional life?
Positively, every Black History Month when I am asked to speak on the subject somewhere.
There is a negative side of that too though, where 1 person is chosen to speak on behalf of an entire race which just isn’t possible. However, the conversation needs to be had, dialogue needs to be opened and if I have the platform then I accept the invitation! Change only comes when we do something about it.
What role do you believe allies can play in actively supporting black colleagues and promoting diversity and inclusion?
Listen, support, believe, mentor, promote and learn. Discover and embrace different cultures. Look at and judge all people fairly.
In your opinion, what are some common misconceptions or stereotypes about black professionals that we should challenge and correct?
Common stereotypes are that we are there because of a sympathy or empathy vote and to meet a percentage quota, some people don’t believe that we’ve earned our place fair and square.
What actions can colleagues take to show allyship?
Get more opinions, listen and believe what is said, engage in healthy dialogue.
I read today that no entitled or privileged person will ever feel or be aware of the pressure or effects of systematic oppression or discrimination – that’s the beauty of privilege, being blissfully unaware.
Becoming aware that it is real and exists, is crucial…