1. Reflect

Reflect and analyse your own prejudices, possible contributions to racism and reflect upon your relationships with people of colour. What language or behaviours do you exhibit that may potentially make Black people uncomfortable? 

More often than not it's comments that you'd make without even thinking about it- ie comments on hair or accents, potentially stereotyping your Black peers in a way you view as harmless; these types of microaggressions perpetuate the negative portrayals of Black people. 

2. Educate 

Make a conscious effort to educate yourself on the history of racism, starting with the slave trade, the Civil Rights Movement as well as the racilisation of the ‘War on Crime’. You can begin to better understand the struggle once you realise how long the battle has been raging on for. Documentaries can give an in depth insight into some of these topics- one I have recently watched is ‘Olympic Pride, American Prejudice’

3. Share 

Resources, posts, links to articles and graphics across your social media pages. You have the ability to reach out to your whole network across your social media and although you may think that a post may seem insignificant, it shows allyship, continues the conversation and spreads awareness. 

4. Speak up 

Whenever you witness any instances of racism, whether this is at home, within your workplace, amongst your friends or even at social events and in the public. This is something that takes practice as it is a very courageous thing to do. Ultimately, casual racism should not be tolerated and the dismantling of these instances begin when you challenge them within your own communities, friendship groups and family.

5. Show up and spend.

Show your support for the Black community by attending events, talks and contributing to the conversation. By showing up you will begin to understand the inequalities Black people face within society and the need to address societal racism at ground level but also legislatively. Engage with black businesses; The Black Pound Day website allows you to search for any participating businesses including clothing, footwear, gifts and food & drink. The inequalities of wealth mean that the Black community is still maturing and in order to increase their presence in the market, they need as much community support in order to be able to grow and thrive. The organisers of the Black Pound Day also have a temporary store in Westfields London so definitely take some time out of your schedules to visit!