Great to see you again, there,
When we talk about allyship and inclusion, we often emphasise the progress we have made and the positive impact on our community. We strive for a world where everyone feels accepted and supported, where discrimination and hate have no place.
But let us take a moment to recognise that as hard as we work, as far as we've come, it's still far from enough. The truth is, the stakes are high. Lives are at risk. Hate crimes, murder, and suicide continue to threaten the very existence of marginalised communities. We cannot ignore the reality, the truth, and the urgent need for change.
There is value in allyship and inclusion. It brings people together, fosters understanding, and creates a safer environment. But let's be honest with ourselves: discrimination and hate persist. It seeps through the cracks, infiltrating our institutions and society at large.
Our efforts to be inclusive and have allies are commendable, but we must acknowledge that they alone are not enough. We need to go beyond the status quo. We must move from passive gestures to active engagement. It's time to challenge ourselves and ask, "What more can we do?"
Inclusion is a crucial step, but it is only the beginning. True belonging takes us to the next level. It goes beyond simply being present; it creates a space where everyone feels valued, respected, and protected. Belonging means no one is left behind or forgotten. It is about building a community that embraces and celebrates our differences.
Imagine a world where everyone truly belongs, where identities are celebrated, and where hate is no longer tolerated. This is a call to activism, to action. We can come together and speak out against discrimination, actively support one another, and co-conspire to create a better world.
Let us recognise how hate and exclusion impact not just individuals but also businesses. When members of marginalised communities are targeted, it creates a ripple effect that reaches beyond personal well-being. It affects the very fabric of our workplaces and the economy as a whole.
We must strive to make meaningful change within our organisations. It is about more than just ticking boxes or implementing policies. We need to foster a sense of belonging, where every individual feels seen, heard, and supported. It starts with meaningful connections, genuine empathy, and taking tangible action to dismantle oppressive systems.
We must confront the issues head-on. It is time to go beyond the comfort zone and redefine our approach. Let us reiterate the steps to making a difference: actively speak out against hate, educate ourselves and others, amplify marginalised voices, build genuine connections, and challenge the status quo. We need to stop being passive or an on-looker to the atrocities going on around us. Get involved and do something!
Imagine what it would feel like if we were the ones facing discrimination and empathise! Join us and stand together, united in our pursuit of belonging and active change. We have the power to make a lasting impact. Spread the word, engage others, and let us forge a future where hate has no place and belonging is the new norm.
Warm Regards,
Joanne Lockwood,
CEO & Founder of SEE Change Happen