Black Inclusion Week
8th-14th May 2023
This week is Black Inclusion week, and we’d like to take the opportunity to reflect on the impact of exclusion and racism in the workplace on people’s mental health.
The Black Lives Matter movement has prompted a greater collective awareness of systemic racism and the importance of anti-racist practices, especially in the workplace, i.e. actively and consciously including racialised people. A key part of anti-racism is to recognise that racism is still a significant issue in our society and continues to affect the lives of racialised people.
According to statistics from Inclusive Employers, a UK-based organisation that promotes diversity and inclusion in the workplace, Black employees are remain underrepresented in leadership positions. From 2021-2022, there were no Black leaders in the top three spots of any of the FTSE 100 companies; Chair, CEO, or CFO. While only 6% of managerial positions in the UK were filled by Black and ethnically minoritised people, despite making up 12.5% of the population and 10% of the UK workforce. This lack of representation can make it difficult for Black employees to feel that their voices are heard, and that their experiences are valued.
Racism and exclusion in the workplace can also have a profound impact on the mental health and wellbeing of ethnically minoritised employees. In addition to the lack of representation, Black employees face higher rates of racism and discrimination in the workplace; in a 2021 report, nearly two out of three Black employees said they’d experienced racism, compared to 42% of Asian employees, and 14% of White employees surveyed.
Racism can include microaggressions, stereotyping, exclusion from decision-making processes, and being overlooked for projects or promotions. Racism in the workplace can contribute to stress, anxiety, depression, isolation, and low self-esteem, all of which can have a significant impact on a person’s mental health and wellbeing. It’s crucial that organisations take concrete steps to promote an inclusive and anti-racist culture that is welcoming, supportive, equitable and psychologically safe for all employees.
It’s important for organisations to take a holistic approach to promoting Black inclusion in the workplace. Organisations can work to increase representation of Black employees in their leadership roles, by supporting and promoting talented Black professionals. Mentoring and coaching programs can be implemented to progress Black employees in their professional development and providing people with opportunities to contribute to decisions and be recognised for their achievements.
Organisations should also address employee mental health and wellbeing. This can involve creating a culture of inclusivity and providing support and resources for minoritised employees, as well as recognising the existence of racism, the damage racist behaviour can have on people’s lives, and taking steps to actively stamp out racism in their organisation. Activities can include building mental health awareness competencies, providing Employee Assistance Programs, creating robust racism reporting procedures, and encouraging continuous development for managers and employees on diversity, equity, and inclusion.
As an anti-racist organisation, Tyneside and Northumberland Mind recognise that racism in the workplace is a significant issue that can have a profound impact on the mental health and wellbeing of ethnically minoritised employees. It’s crucial that we all take concrete steps to promote inclusion and create a culture that is welcoming, supportive, and equitable for all employees. By addressing mental health and wellbeing and promoting representation and inclusivity, organisations can create a workplace culture that values diversity and fosters success for all employees.
