Celebrating Black History Month: Saluting Our Sisters

As we step into October, the autumn leaves aren't the only things coloring our world. It's that time of year again when we come together to celebrate Black History Month in the UK. This month is an opportunity to reflect on and honor the profound contributions of the Black community throughout history. ❤️

This year, our Multicultural EPIC Network is thrilled to introduce you to the theme of 'Saluting Our Sisters,' which highlights the incredible achievements of Black women. Join us as we delve into why this theme is so important and why it should matter to every single member of our organization.

This Year's Theme: 'Saluting Our Sisters'

The theme for Black History Month UK 2023, 'Saluting Our Sisters,' places a well-deserved spotlight on the remarkable achievements of Black women. These women have played pivotal roles in shaping history, inspiring change, and building communities. However, despite their monumental impact, the extraordinary accomplishments of Black women, in particular, have often been overlooked or forgotten.

But why is this theme so crucial? 'Saluting Our Sisters' emphasizes the indispensable role Black women have played in influencing and impacting society. It underscores that #WEMATTER, highlighting that their emotions, experiences, and expertise matter. It's a theme that acknowledges the often-undervalued contributions of Black women and challenges the status quo. 🙌

Why 'Saluting Our Sisters' Matters to RG

Now, you might wonder why this theme should matter to every employee at RG, regardless of their background or identity. Our mission is to make the world a better place to work, and that is only possible by considering the world of work for ALL people.

Here are some statistics that shed light on the challenges faced by Black women in the workplace:

• Nearly one-third of Black women report being unfairly passed over for promotions, rising to almost half for disabled Black women.
• Over 50% of Black women leave their jobs due to racial inequalities.
• 50% of Black women in senior positions have resigned due to racism.
• 68% of Black women have reported racial bias at work.
• 92% of Black women want to see systemic change in their workplaces.
• 1 in 5 Black women feel societal pressure to alter their hair for work.
• Over half of young Black women say they've been given harder tasks than their peers.
• Almost half of all disabled Black women have faced verbal abuse at work.
• One in eight Black LBT+ women has experienced serious sexual assault or rape at work.

These statistics paint a stark picture of just a few of the challenges Black women face, and they underscore the urgency of addressing these issues. As leaders and influencers in the HR Tech space, it is our duty to lead by example and inspire change. 

Taking Action and Resources

At RG, we believe in taking meaningful action. Feeling inspired to celebrate this Black History Month? There are many ways you can pay tribute and extend our Mission and support Black women in our organization and beyond.

The first is through learning and becoming an advocate. Our Multicultural Network wanted to share these valuable resources with all employees so we can learn the facts together and do better in the future. 💡

• Understanding barriers faced by Black Professional Women in Career Progression – YouTube
• BME Women and Work
• Race in the workplace: The McGregor-Smith review
• Women in the Workplace: Black women face more bias and get less support

Another great way to celebrate is to raise money for a charity that is making a meaningful impact. We’ve put together a list of organizations. In addition, we will be making a donation as a network on behalf of RG.

• Southall Black Sisters exist to highlight and challenge violence against women and girls, empowering them to gain control over their lives and assert their human rights to justice, equality, and freedom. 
• The Black Women Rising cancer support project is a registered UK charity offering vital help, information and practical advice for people of colour who have been diagnosed with cancer.
• Black Minds Matter UK is a fully registered charity connecting Black individuals and families with free therapy by qualified and accredited Black therapists.

This Black History Month, let's not just celebrate the past but actively work towards creating a more inclusive and equitable future. Let's amplify the voices of Black women, recognize their invaluable contributions, and commit to dismantling the barriers they face.

Join Our Celebration

Join us in celebrating Black History Month 2023 and saluting the extraordinary Black women who have shaped our world. By honoring 'Saluting Our Sisters,' we are taking a step forward in making RG a better place to work, where diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging are not just words but lived experiences for every RG employee.

If you'd like to learn more about our people, culture, and our EPIC approach to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, check out our blog rg.co/lifeatrg or our YouTube channel today.