Moving the dial: Reflections on Black History Month UK

It has taken me all month to gather my thoughts together as to what I wanted this year's UK Black History Month to be.

This year has been particularly wonderful as it’s been dedicated to uplifting and showcasing Black women. Recognising our beauty, intelligence and our drive to see change.

The official theme was Saluting our Sisters but my unofficial theme was 'getting everyone involved' and not just involved but asking the question 'How can I meaningfully contribute?'

I have shared more personal stories about my professional experience this year than I have before. Not because I had to, but because I wanted to, if it helped one other person to feel seen, then my mission was accomplished.

I want the workplace to be better for Black women, but I also know that it’s a collaborative effort to get us there.

None of my engagements during the month would have been possible without the support, time and effort of so many people. I didn’t do this alone and to everyone who has been a champion and a shoulder, I am thankful.

My forthcoming book Closing the Gap: How To Include Black Women in Any Gender Equity is designed to help Black women and allies alike to recognise organisational barriers and to work together to dismantle them.

To bring it back to collaboration, I can’t thank all the Black women who gave their time to complete our Closing the Chasm report. Without you, I wouldn’t have the insights that went into my book.

As we move into November, the question is ‘what next?’ And I hope each one of you has an answer. Whether it’s getting a copy of my book to start your learning journey or starting to create a strategy on how to retain Black women. Whatever you decide to do either individually or organisationally please make it something.

And what am I doing? Releasing my book, beginning year 3 of the Experience Chasm Survey and working with more organisations, just to name a few.

Hoping to see you soon!?

Leanne Mair is the Founder and CEO of?Benefactum Consulting, a consultancy focussed on accelerating gender equity in the workplace, the Founder of?Black Women Parlay, an invitation-only network for future-forward Black women and the Founder of?The Sororum,?a social enterprise dedicated to supporting first-generation female professionals moving into the workplace.

Leanne was named a LinkedIn Top Voice for Gender Equity 2023 and continues to shine a light on the topic.