Remembering George Floyd: Leadership and Allyship

Sandra Kerr

• Uncategorized
• Race Equality
• Diversity and Inclusion

George Floyd’s brutal murder ignited a global movement for justice and equality. It is crucial not only to honour his memory, but also reflect on the ongoing need for leadership and allyship, four years on.

His death was a stark reminder of the deep-rooted issues of racial discrimination and systematic inequalities that persist in our society. It sparked widespread conversations about race, justice, and the role of leadership in creating meaningful change.

Many organisations and businesses condemned the tragic events, and took a stand through statements, a zero-tolerance policy on racism and a commitment to diversity and inclusion.

The need to listen

Businesses play a pivotal role in shaping societal norms. Business has the power to drive change through its policies, practices, and advocacy efforts.

I recognise that even with the best intentions, it’s not enough to issue statements; businesses must take concrete actions to address racial disparities within their own organisations and in the broader communities they serve.

This includes listening to the voices of marginalised communities, and in this context ethnically diverse staff. Let’s keep in mind that our actions and behaviours, following the information shared with us are the true indicators of having listened and understood.

At BITC, our first Race at Work survey was launched in 2015 to understand first-hand experiences of race equality in the workplace. Trends from the surveys demonstrate there is a need for greater senior leadership commitment to action.

Our Voices from the Race at Work Surveys report amplifies the voices of more than 42,000 employees, it includes compelling quotes from people explaining their experience as Black, Asian, Mixed-Race, and ethnically diverse employees, as well shedding light on the reality of race equality in the workplace.

I recognise that even with the best intentions, it’s not enough to issue statements; businesses must take concrete actions to address racial disparities within their own organisations and in the broader communities they serve.

Sandra Kerr, Race Director, BITC

The power of allyship

In the aftermath of George Floyd’s death, and the harrowing video footage that streamed into our homes, we witnessed a groundswell of support from people of all backgrounds coming together to demand change. This collective action underscored the power of allyship in driving social progress and promoting unity across diverse communities.

Allyship at its core involves using individual privilege and influence to actively speak up, challenge discrimination, and create opportunities for marginalised communities.

Our Race at Work charter sets out seven commitments that businesses can take to make race equality a priority. I encourage your business to sign it, today.

As we remember George Floyd today, let us recommit ourselves to the principles of leadership, allyship, and corporate accountability and responsibility.

MAKE RACE EQUALITY A PRIORITY

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