Diversity In Practice Updates 5 - Decolonising, the basics

Colonisation is a significant problem in the drive for meaningful change.

We know that there is a lot of work required to decolonise education at all levels and in all subjects.

We also know that the racialisation and perceptions of racial hierarchies, biases and assumed ethnic supremacy are still negatively impacting opportunities and outcomes for under-served individuals, groups and communities in all areas of life; employment, housing, health and social care, financial, enterprise and innovation, skills and career development… the list goes on.

We know the purpose of Diversity work is to DE-Centre the white experience and narrative but we still see extremely poor representation in this space. The purpose of Diversity work is to DE-Centre the dominant cultural experince and narrative to improve meaningful representation and engagement.

In relation to Diversity work there are no regulations or clear professional standards in the sector. This can make it difficult to identify quality practitioners.

So, we are responsible for ensuring our own quality standards. We must recognise our individual limitations and be aware of our practice.

I would ask ALL Diversity Professionals (and anyone who has the responsibility for diversity outcomes within an organisation) to consider a few questions –

Why do I think I am THE BEST person to be delivering THIS Diversity work?
What value, insight or skills do I bring to serve those from Diverse backgrounds?
How does my lived experience enrich or divert the discussion?
How does my professional expertise support equity-based practice?
Which under-served groups am I UNABLE to represent? What am I doing to address this gap?
How do I ensure my work is inclusive, ethical and that I am held to account? Do you have suitable supervisory support?

These questions will help Diversity professionals assess their professional leadership and understand why poor representation is damaging the credibility of the sector.

Complete my anonymous Diversity in Practice S urvey for Diversity Professionals, aimed at helping me develop suitable support for colleagues in the sector.

You can also register for the free Building Excellence Open Webinars where I will be sharing some lessons on Colonialism and its impact on the systems in which we function. With additional sessions scheduled to share insights and resources on profressional reflection and represenation.

I look forward to seeing you at our next Diversity in Practice call.

Stay safe,

Sabrina