Reclaiming the narrative: an ally’s perspective

As we celebrate Black History Month 2024, the importance of being an ally year-round couldn’t be clearer.

This year’s theme, ‘Reclaiming Narratives’, is an opportunity to celebrate the achievements and contributions of Black individuals, both past and present, while recognising and correcting the narratives of Black history and culture. Being an ally is crucial in this context, as it involves supporting and amplifying the voices of Black communities, fostering inclusivity, and challenging systemic inequalities.

Leaders and allies of our Black Network discuss the significance of this year’s Black History Month, the ongoing role that allies play, and how individuals and organisations can get involved with Black networks to help reclaim the narrative.

Celebrating Black History Month as an ally

By reclaiming narratives, we are challenged to cast away the inaccurate portrayals and misconceptions too-often embodied by the media. Therefore, the theme is a positive one; we’re all encouraged to seek out the truth and celebrate the resilience, creativity, and accomplishments of Black individuals and communities.

“There’s the temptation with Black History Month to focus on slavery, and yes, there is an education around that that needs to happen, but that's not the only history shared by Black people,” says Prim Raymond, Senior Business Manager and Deputy Co-Chair of the Black Network at Hays. “It's quite interesting to move on to something that is maybe a little bit more positive but still impacts everybody's lives.”

Jeff Taylor, Managing Director at Hays, emphasises the educational aspect of this month’s theme, particularly as an ally:

“It’s been really educational, and interesting to look back and correct things that needed correcting, or debunking myths, or finding out more about important Black figures.”

Understanding allyship

Allyship is more than just a label; it’s an active and ongoing process of learning, supporting, and advocating for marginalised groups. An ally uses their privilege to stand in solidarity with those who face discrimination and injustice – educating themselves about the experiences and histories of these communities, listening to their voices, and taking concrete action to support their causes.

For Pam Lindsay-Dunn, Chief Operating Officer at Hays, learning to be the best version of yourself by understanding differences and challenging preconceptions is a fundamental aspect of allyship:

“Being able to work with people from different backgrounds and being able to understand and appreciate our differences is fundamental. A part of that understanding needs to include how history is told, but also how we correct those narratives is really important.” 

How allies can contribute to Black Networks (and benefit from them)

Black networks play a vital role in fostering allyship, helping people understand the lived experiences of Black individuals and the systemic barriers they face. As Jeff explains, they provide the opportunity to insert yourself into important conversations, potentially helping to drive positive change.

“It's very well and good to pass comment, but if you can influence from the inside, that's even better,” says Jeff. “I think with my role, reach, and network, my voice can be an influence. And if it can influence things even half a percent, I'm going to use it.”

Moreover, Black networks provide a safe environment for individuals to learn, ask questions, and make mistakes without fear of judgment. They could be an important first step towards effective allyship.

“I do wonder whether people know where to start, and whether a blocker, perhaps for people not moving forward as quick as they could be, is a fear of making mistakes,” adds Jeff. “We've got an unbelievably good Black Network, co-chaired by some brilliant people. The beauty of our Network is that it's safe enough to make mistakes and have the chance to learn by them. And it’s also a rewarding and pleasant place to be a part of.”

Making allyship a part of organisational processes

All organisations are on a journey, but even the best of them can make mistakes. It is vital that business leaders are educated on the value of diverse perspectives in decision-making and encouraged to seek input from Black networks. By doing so, organisations can avoid making well-intentioned, but often misguided decisions, and instead create policies and practices that genuinely support diversity and inclusion.

“Black networks help identify and challenge stereotypes, preventing them from being perpetuated within organisations, and ensuring the right narrative is being told,” explains Prim.

And in a complex world where it’s all too easy to “get it wrong”, even when trying to do the right thing, having a diverse body of people you can confidently consult with and take guidance from could be crucial to avoiding an embarrassing mistake.

“Having different backgrounds and experiences you can check in with is invaluable,” says Pam. “I think that goes for all of our networks as well; having a point of reference and a shared experience where we're in it together and knowing that we won't always get it right the first time.”

Reclaiming narratives, and nurturing new cultures

Allyship is about more than just supporting Black communities during Black History Month; it is about committing to long-term change and creating environments where everyone can thrive. Often, it requires a willingness to confront uncomfortable truths and recognise the different ways people experience the world, a self-aware mindset only driven further by this month’s call to reclaim narratives.

“While there is clearly much progress to be made in recognising and celebrating the truth in terms of Black history and culture, and understanding how this benefits our collective prospects, this conversation and the level of awareness it creates is positive for the future,” explains Clinton Cooper, Internal Communications Manager and Deputy Co-Chair of the Black Network.

“By continuing to plant the seeds, at some point we can grow and nurture the right culture,” says Clinton. “When the conversations are on the table, and it's done in a safe way, we can make everyone feel like they're part of something bigger.”