October is Black History Month. This national celebration aims to promote and celebrate the contributions of those with African and Caribbean heritage to British society and to foster an understanding of Black history in general.

Why is Black History Month important?

Black History Month is an opportunity to start conversations about race. Conversations about race are important to have in the workplace because it supports an organisation's anti-racism work and encourages a two-way dialogue and conversation about race between Black, Asian, Minority Ethnic and White employees.

This is important for building relationships, rapport and trust among colleagues.

How can my organisation celebrate Black History Month

• Provide information to your colleagues about Black History Month and why it is celebrated.
• Ask your colleagues to get involved by sharing recipes from around the world and encouraging each other to cook them.
• Get involved with a Black History Month quiz for colleagues – testing their knowledge on key black history events.
• Find out what's going on in your local area for Black History Month and share the details with your colleagues.

Black History Month is a great way to start the conversation about race, but we need to make sure that our organisations are being inclusive and open to all cultures and backgrounds all year round. We need to make sure that we have policies and procedures in place for this and letting all colleagues know what this means for them. If you have a diversity and inclusion group in your organisation, get them to help to think about what ways your organisation can be more inclusive – be that from the physical infrastructure of your organisation to the behaviours and culture, and even to your recruitment practices.  

For more information about Black History Month, please visit: www.blackhistorymonth.org.uk