Belonging Beyond Inclusion Empowering Black and Global Majority Women

In the ever-evolving narrative of equality and empowerment, International Women’s Day stands as a beacon of hope, a rallying cry for progress, and a platform for amplifying voices that too often remain unheard.  As we approach this pivotal day, the Birmingham Race Impact Group (BRIG) stands resolute in its commitment to uplift and empower black and global majority women, recognising the unique challenges we face and the imperative to foster true belonging in every sphere of life.

“Inspire Inclusion” is the theme that resonates deeply this year, yet in my view, it is imperative to acknowledge that mere inclusion is not enough.  We must transcend the notion of being invited to the table, we must cultivate a sense of belonging where every woman feels and is seen, heard, and valued.

In our society today, black and global majority women and girls encounter multifaceted challenges that permeate every aspect of their lives.  From the workplace to the classroom, from healthcare to the justice system: the barriers they are confronted with are both systemic and deeply entrenched.

In the professional arena, despite strides toward diversity and representation, Black and global majority women continue to face glass ceilings, sometimes made up of double and triple-glazed glass, together with systemic biases that hinder advancement.  The wage gap persists, with black women earning significantly less than their white counterparts for equal work.  The struggle for equal opportunities and fair treatment remains an uphill battle, requiring steadfast advocacy and systemic change.

In education, black and global majority girls encounter disparities of access, resources, and support that perpetuate cycles of inequality.  Too often, they are marginalised, overlooked, or underestimated, depriving them of the opportunities to fulfil their potential and contribute fully to society.

Even in matters of health, the disparities are glaring.  It is well documented that Black and global majority women experience higher rates of maternal mortality, inadequate  access to quality healthcare, and disparities in treatment that reflect systemic biases within the medical system.

Moreover, the scourge of domestic abuse casts a long shadow, disproportionately affecting black and global majority women.  Cultural stigmas, economic disparities, and systemic failures in support and intervention exacerbate their vulnerability, despite the strong woman trope, leaving them trapped in cycles of violence with limited avenues for escape.

At the recent Women Acting In Today’s Society (WAITS) conference, these issues were brought to the fore, igniting conversations and galvanising action.  Yet, amidst the discourse on inclusion, the essence of belonging emerged as a crucial distinction.

Inclusion implies being allowed entry into existing spaces, while belonging encompasses a deeper sense of acceptance, affirmation and community.  Belonging means feeling valued for who you are, not merely tolerated for your presence.  It’s about creating environments where every woman feels empowered to bring her fully authentic self to the table, without fear of judgement or discrimination.

As we celebrate International Women’s Day 2024, let us think long and hard about going beyond inclusion and have some inspired thinking about what it means for black and global majority women to truly belong in this world.  Let us dismantle the systemic barriers that deny us equal opportunities and fair treatment.  Let us amplify voices, uplift stories, and advocate tirelessly.

True progress requires more than rhetoric; it demands action.  It requires us to challenge the status quo, confront our biases, and actively work toward a society where every woman feels that they belong, have dignity and can actualise agency.

For International Women’s Day, I challenge us all to not just inspire inclusion, but to inspire a profound and enduring sense of belonging for black and global majority women everywhere.  For in belonging, we find strength, solidarity, and the promise of a brighter, more equitable future for all, and especially our beautiful black and global majority daughters.