Network Journal 2006 Issue 4 Nov/Dec

Standing up against racism

Tackling racial harassment was the theme of this year’s black members weekend held in October at the union’s national training centre in Warrington.

Workshops, guest speakers and question and answer sessions looked at how Usdaw and the trade union movement in general can support black and Asian members who are experiencing racism.

Throughout the weekend delegates were encouraged to share their own experiences of racism in the 'big brother' diary room.

This proved very popular with delegates who talked to the camera about a wide range of issues and what more Usdaw can do to help build anti-racism in the workplace. Some of the footage will be included on training courses and the comments will help shape the future direction of Usdaw's race equality work.

Former Boots employee Mansong Dambell was at his second get-together. "The video diary was a very good idea," he said. "Everyone enjoyed it and people who maybe were too shy to talk in the open forums took the chance to have their say in the privacy of the diary room. It helped put a smile on everyone's face.

"I think the work Usdaw is putting in on the equality forums will help ensure under-represented groups of members become more active and involved.

"I had a magnificent weekend. We all learn from each other and it underlines that we are not alone."

Acting equalities officer Jo Bird was pleased with the get-together. "All in all the weekend was a great success," she said. "The event helped Usdaw reach a new layer of activists.

"It also gives important space to our black and Asian members to identify and highlight current problems of racism in the workplace and to share their experiences.

"We will also share the ideas and suggestions that were discussed at the weekend with all our reps and members so that we can take the issue of tackling racism forward and out into our workplaces.

"It's important that the voices of our black and Asian members are heard loud and clear in Usdaw's national campaigns.

"This weekend is just one way in which we consult and listen to the views of our black and Asian members."

What you said: about the weekend

"It's given me the opportunity to discuss what is going on in our workplaces with my black brothers and sisters - to discover what we've got in common - to share our problems and to seek solutions."

Tom Offeh.

"This weekend has opened my eyes and has helped me to identify problems that I might not otherwise have picked up on. This weekend has really motivated me to go back to my workplace and encourage everyone to join Usdaw."

Maria King-Nkosi.

"I've enjoyed it and I've learnt a lot. It's great to see so many people here of my colour. I'm the only black person in my workplace so I do feel isolated. It's been great to be at a union event and for once not be in the minority!"

Neville Powell.

"The weekend has been absolutely brilliant. We've talked about so much, what we can do and how we can start to work together with all reps and members to change things. I've got to say to anyone who hasn't been before, you have to come!"

David Dunkley.

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