We've had a busy time here at MacIntyre as we've celebrated Black History Month.
Influential Black figures
An interactive presentation to staff by members of our diversity group had the theme "reclaiming narratives". The session introduced us to some key figures from Black British history, explaining their influence and legacy. Just a few were:
- Wilfred Wood, the first Black Bishop of the Church of England
- Tessa Sanderson, the Olympic athlete
- Sam Beaver King, who co-founded the Windrush Foundation
As we discussed these and others, people shared Black British figures who had inspired them. Some were well-known people, some were personal stories.
A personal history
Cath Kelly, Area Manager in Greater Manchester, was inspired to explore her family history:
I have loved celebrating Black History Month and it has given me time for a lot of personal reflection on my own ethnicity. Reclaiming the narrative theme sat perfectly with me and was something I was passionate about. I loved the idea of sharing real stories so here goes.
My grandfather was a Black American Air Force pilot based in Manchester in WW2.
He was originally from Jamaica. Although I never met my grandfather, my father ensured we learned about our heritage when growing up. I had never seen a picture of my grandfather as my father only had one picture that was lost many years ago.
I had joined Ancestry last year to try and find more information but had not really done anything with my subscription. What we had been doing as part of the Diversity Group over the last month for Black History Month prompted me to get my act together and do some searches (I became quite obsessed with the whole thing!)
I have now been able to find a picture of my grandfather when he was 19 in the Air Force, and my father at the grand old age of 79 has been able to see his own father as a young man for the first time.
It was a very special moment as my grandfather in the picture is the absolute image of my late brother!
Without being part of the Diversity Group and celebrating Black History month I probably would have just procrastinated on this search. It’s been a real joy to celebrate this month and look forward to more celebrations and sharing of experiences in the future.
Celebrating heritage
Elsewhere around MacIntyre, staff of Nigerian heritage celebrated Nigeria Independence Day, sharing stories, food and traditional costumes with colleagues and people who draw on MacIntyre’s support.
We held gatherings with staff who had recently joined us under the UK sponsorship scheme, exploring with them differences and similarities between various cultures and traditions.
West African Awareness Day
And just this week, we held West African Awareness Day at MacIntyre's head office, where colleagues of West African origin shared a lunchtime celebration of culture, food and heritage.
A positive month
It's been a great month. We've all learned a lot from each other, shared stories and understood the importance of Black history, here in Britain and around the world.
Seb Moh, MacIntyre's Quality and People Director, summed up the Month:
Black History Month is an invaluable opportunity for MacIntyre to celebrate the rich cultural contributions of Black colleagues and communities. It serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of diversity, equity, and inclusion in everything we do, which is embedded within our DNA. Our commitment to fostering a culture of belonging is strengthened by recognising the diverse perspectives that make our workplace and communities more innovative, empathetic, and resilient.
As someone of mixed African heritage, Black History Month holds deep personal significance for me, and by reflecting on the challenges and triumphs of Black history, we not only honour those who came before us, but also inspire the next generation to drive positive change.
