Julie Dennis , Acas Head of Inclusive Workplaces Policy
Julie is a diversity and inclusion specialist with 20 years’ experience in the public and voluntary sector. At Acas she’s responsible for leading and providing expert advice to build an inclusive culture.
Let’s face it, looking back on 2020, there have been very few positives. But could we at least say albania phone number library that we have seen an increase in awareness of race equality? There has certainly been a surge in the sales of books on anti-racism, people have protested for more action on racial equality and there have been a number of notable TV programmes about black history.
The big question though is: has this awareness translated into action in our workplaces? I think there are some signs that it has, but we must keep the momentum going. Being an ‘ally’ is an important part of this.
What makes a good ally?
When I look back on my life, I’ve always tried to call out racism, but it’s not always easy. I still recall a germany cell number few years ago when I was in a pub in a Derbyshire village and there were 4 elderly gentlemen sitting in the corner playing cards.
One of them made a racist comment
Thinking because there was no one in the pub irish legend: jack-o’-lantern and pumpkins who was non-white that it was acceptable. When the other 3 started laughing, I could not help myself to challenge that. But I’ll be honest, I had quickly assessed the situation before doing so.
Being an ally is not an easy thing for everyone to do and it is not something that you can just stand there and say “I’m an ally for race equality”. It’s about taking serious action and putting some real energy into those actions.
So, what makes a good ally? There are lots of guides and advice out there and one of the best I’ve seen is the Business in the Community’s anti-racism and allyship in the workplace guide. It contains simple tips like recognising the advantages of privilege, being an active bystander and being ready to be vulnerable.