Editors Letter – April 2024

Let’s face it, women’s month had some victory moments, and it had some major lows too.

It goes without saying that Frank Hester’s ‘makes me hate all black women’ moment was one of them and, no, it didn’t bring out the ‘angry black woman’ in me.

It brought out the exhausted black woman in me. This, and other events, made me reflect on the world becoming so right wing, especially where black and ethnically diverse people are concerned.

The new Dutch prime minister has a conviction for inciting hatred and he’s already banning mosques and the Quran.

The election of Donald Trump in 2016 said it all and it sounds crazy to say the words ‘If he returns to power next year’ but the polls suggest that he would have the advantage in a rematch with Joe Biden.

Nigel Farage is the 4th most popular British political figure. I wasn’t at all surprised to read our March edition article ‘Exposing Workplace Realities’ by Sheya Michaelides which revealed that 52% of Black women in the UK plan to exit the workforce due to hostile environments. Coqual’s report has unveiled disparities, microaggressions, and the urgent need for change.

Also, an important piece about the Windrush scandal by Professor Patrick Vernon OBE focusing on the need to do more work looking at the health and wellbeing of the Windrush Generation.

Tragically, over 50 people have died already, and we still do not know the true impact of the psychological and traumatic impact of the hostile environment policy on the minds, bodies and survival of the Windrush generation and other migrants and refugees affected by this policy.

“Justice delayed is justice denied, but the courage to demand change ensures that tomorrow’s generation will inherit a fairer world.”

Several moments this month reminded me of two things that are needed right now. The first is solidarity.

It’s stifling to live in in this right-wing climate without the support and encouragement of others.

The second is a focus on examples of black excellence to counteract the energy that right-wing leaders like Hester push out.

Thousands gathered last week for a rally that was organised by local black women in Hackney including Lucie Scott, the former BAME officer for Hackney North, and several councillors in the borough.

It was attended by supporters, including Jeremy Corbyn, who wanted to protest against the comments and the wider treatment of black women in public life.

This was a true show of solidarity, and it was inspiring to see Diane Abbott looking visibly moved by the love and support she received and continues to.

That’s exactly the solidarity that is needed the world over. When it comes to Black excellence, Black Wall St Media is never short on examples of trailblazing black women to remind us of just how amazing we are.

It was refreshing to dive into the journey of Dr. Maydianne Andrade, a trailblazer in science and champion of diversity.

‘From groundbreaking research on spiders to empowering the next generation of Black scientists, her story is a tapestry of inspiration and advocacy.’

Just reading about her impact on academia and the quest for a more inclusive future was heart-warming.

As was an article about Kizzmekia Corbett, a ‘Trailblazer in Science and Equity.’

I also wrote a piece Natasha Ferguson, renowned for her international communications expertise, has been appointed as the Chief Operating Officer for the prestigious UK charity, the Taylor Bennett Foundation.

As one of the few Black women in senior leadership roles, Natasha’s appointment marks a significant step towards greater diversity and inclusion in the workplace. She truly deserved a round of applause for this well-deserved achievement.

To me, Black Excellence is achieved when we find the courage to push through systemic barriers so that our light can shine through. Where there is excellence, there is hope.

Solidarity is both golden and necessary as we stand together to generate the energy needed to combat negativity and create lasting change. So, as we step into the next quarter of 2024, let’s seek out and work to achieve both.

However exhausted or disillusioned you might be feeling (trust me, I feel it with you), please don’t lose hope.