A Pandemic of Hope

Written by Jermaine Gregory, Anti-Racism Network Committee Member

Hey everyone,

I write this as I’m travelling back home on a train from visiting family in the proud second city of Birmingham, and a few reflections came to mind. I happened to sign upto a LinkedIn Live hosted by Elliott Rae, who is a champion for parents within the workplace. On the Live appeared Aggie Yemurai Mutuma, who spoke so reassuringly about action, and thoughtfully at that. You can read a summary of 5 things we can all do at this time.

Hope you enjoy!

“The recent violence and riots have left many feeling unsafe, anxious and scared for their safety and that of their loved ones.  Many are struggling, wondering what to do, how to help and how they can make things better. Here are five steps that we can take to look after ourselves if we are affected, show our support as colleagues and friends and finally to support our teams as leaders.” – Aggie Yemurai Mutuma

The Anti-Racist demonstrations in August show communities that neutralise hate exist. Against the echoes of imperialism and seething rage on our doorsteps, we showed up and painted a picture of tolerant, accepting communities. Communities that embrace all people, spread around the UK in light and in spite of the fear-mongering of those weaponising flags - an inanimate symbol of this country - as a mechanism of aggression.

I believe that the misdirected and confused anger of pockets of people determined to "represent their country" and its interests wasn't the truest representation of their thoughts. Stoked, ignited, and inflamed, they roused fear in people who have experienced some of the worst kinds of institutional racism that human kind can bestow on another person. We as a nation, should be better than this, and deserve to exist as a nation that believes in equity, integrity, honesty and transparency.

I believe those that turned up to cause distress on our streets have been misled by voices with a platform. People who believe that sending a message of rejection is the way to cover for their insecurity and disenfranchisement.

I reflect on the cities that spoke very loudly about there being no space for those sowing discord: Newcastle, Birmingham, London, Bristol, and our northern family and friends in Scotland. If I haven't mentioned your area please forgive me.

The events of August were a stark reminder that there is still a pervasive undercurrent of misplaced entitlement to a land that has historically been fought over and conquered many a time. This land belongs to all of us. Whether an asylum seeker, a migrant, a tourist, or citizen. This island, this continent, this planet belongs to all of us and our job is to treat it and each other in a way that maintains that understanding.

There were some choice words shared about those people who travelled across this country to incite fear. Some words I agree with and others I might hesitate to use as more understanding comes out of the haze of confusion, misinformation, and desperation. I want to keep that route of conversation open without labelling those that may be open to change - cue the work of Hope Not Hate.

I'd like you to ask yourself: How do I get through to someone who appears to be so consumed with misinformed narratives penetrating the radio waves of our televisions and social media, infecting the minds of the young and old, leading to them spilling out onto the streets to leave yet more trauma on our doorsteps? If you were sat next to them in a room full of people, what would you say to them, with the intention of sparking new understanding and acceptance.

Before I leave you with the thoughts of Aggie Yumurai Mutuma I want to share this video I came across. An introspective piece by a then 14 year old poet, Royce Mann, with “White Boy Privilege” - https://youtu.be/g4Q1jZ-LOT0?si=WA5v3zJTe6W-i1pO

The world is watching, and if ever we needed a reminder of why individuals in communities doing anti-racism work is beneficial for all of us, this would be it.

Keep reading for 5 considerations as suggested by Mutuma below for the workplace.

For those affected, especially people of colour and Muslim people

1. Acknowledge your feelings - Don’t feel pressured to say you’re okay if you’re not. Expressing your true emotions opens the door for compassion and the support you may need.
2. Self care is vital at this time - Remember to practice self-care and be intentional about finding moments of joy and peace. Look after yourself. 

As a colleague and or friend 

3. At the water cooler - As a colleague or friend, the worst thing you can do is remain silent. Check in with your colleagues and friends. A simple question like, 'How are you doing, especially with the riots?' can be enough. By opening that door, you show that you’re there for support, providing an opportunity for them to share or lean on you if needed.

As a leader

4. Leaders, make statements -Silence is not an option. Make a statement that aligns with your values and offers support to your colleagues. Additionally, offer flexibility to accommodate their needs during these challenging times. 

As a line manager

5. Managers support - It’s crucial to speak up and then check in frequently. Provide flexibility and support by helping to reprioritise tasks. Your proactive approach can make a significant difference in creating a supportive and inclusive environment.

By taking these steps we can build trust and ensure that everyone feels seen, heard, and valued. And most importantly we can ensure that those affected feel supported and cared for during this challenging time. 

Contact Aggie Yemurai Mutuma at: https://mahoganyinclusionpartners.com

Much love and peace,

Jermaine