People are Scared: A Call to Action for HR Leaders in the UK
Over the past few weeks, Britain has witnessed a surge in far-right riots, sparking widespread concern and alarm. These protests, which have erupted in various cities across the UK, are characterized by violent clashes, vandalism, and aggressive rhetoric aimed at immigrants, refugees and racialized communities.
The unrest has created a tense and volatile atmosphere, deeply affecting the sense of safety for racialized folks and those deserving of asylum.
Image Description: The image shows a large protest with a diverse crowd holding signs that read "LOVE + UNITY," "Refugees welcome," "Stop the far right," and "Smash fascism & racism." The signs are in bright yellow and pink. Police officers in high-visibility jackets are present at the front of the crowd. The protest is taking place on a city street lined with buildings, creating an atmosphere of activism and solidarity against far-right ideologies and in support of refugees and anti-racism.
Far Right Riots: Concerns and Advocacy
The main concerns driving the far-right riots center around immigration, national identity, and economic insecurity. Protesters are advocating for stricter immigration controls and policies, driven by a belief (emphasis on belief) that immigrants are undermining British culture and taking jobs from native citizens. This rhetoric is not new and has historical roots in xenophobia and racism, often resurfacing during times of economic or social uncertainty.
Impact on Racialized Communities and Refugees
These riots are having a profound impact on racialized communities, specifically those of Black, South Asian, Middle Eastern descent, and refugees. The aggressive nature of the protests has made these communities feel targeted and unsafe, exacerbating existing tensions. The fear and anxiety experienced by these groups are palpable, as they are often the primary targets of the violence and hostility being expressed by the rioters.
Recent Events of Racially Based Violence
Recent events have highlighted the severity of racially based violence in the UK. One of the most harrowing incidents involved the tragic killing of a young boy with a sword, a brutal act that shocked the nation and underscored the deadly consequences of unchecked racial hatred. This incident, among others, reflects a disturbing trend of escalating violence against racialized individuals and refugees, further deepening their sense of vulnerability.
A Historical Context of Racism in the UK
The current climate of racism in the UK is, unfortunately, not surprising. The country's history is steeped in colonialism and white supremacy, creating a persistent undercurrent of racial bias. The "immigrants are taking our jobs" narrative is a harmful rhetoric with deep roots in this history, often used to divide working-class white citizens and racialized communities. Historically, economic disparities and job insecurity have been manipulated to foster resentment towards immigrants instead of addressing the systemic issues of wealth inequality and labour market exploitation. Data consistently shows that racialized groups are disproportionately affected by unemployment and lower wages, further highlighting the need for systemic change rather than scapegoating.
A Call to Action for HR Leaders
HR professionals and organizational leaders have a crucial role in these challenging times. Racialized employees and refugees are feeling unsafe and vulnerable, and they need your grace and support more than ever. It is essential to create a workplace environment where everyone feels protected and valued, regardless of their racial or ethnic background.
Addressing Bias in the Workplace
The reality is that those participating in these riots are part of the workforce, and their biases and discriminatory attitudes can create barriers for their colleagues. While it is their right to protest, it is not their right to bring that discrimination into the workplace. HR leaders must recognize that these biases can translate into harmful behaviours and practices that affect the safety and well-being of immigrant, racialized, and refugee employees.
What's happening right now is racism, full-stop. Racialized people, their families, friends, and allies are scared and in pain. The impact of these demonstrations is hurting people in ways we can't even begin to quantify, and this will undoubtedly affect their work and mental well-being. As HR leaders and employers, it is critical to understand the depth of this pain and fear and to take proactive steps to support your employees through these incredibly challenging times. The emotional and psychological toll of witnessing and experiencing such hatred and violence can profoundly impact performance, engagement, and overall workplace morale.
Actionable Steps for HR Leaders
Here are twelve actionable steps HR leaders can take to support their racialized colleagues and promote a more inclusive workplace:
Advocate for Comprehensive DEI Training Programs: Ensure all employees undergo regular diversity, equity, and inclusion training to foster a more inclusive and understanding work environment.
Offer Flexibility for Remote Work: Allow employees to work remotely to reduce the stress and safety concerns associated with commuting during this volatile period.
Flexible Start and End Times: Adjust work hours to accommodate those who may feel unsafe travelling during peak times.
Regular Check-Ins: Proactively check in with your employees, particularly those from racialized backgrounds, to see how they cope and offer support.
Create Safe Spaces: Establish safe spaces or support groups where employees can share their experiences and find solidarity.
Mental Health Support: Provide access to mental health resources and support services tailored to the needs of racialized employees.
Clear Anti-Discrimination Policies: Reiterate and enforce clear policies against discrimination and harassment in the workplace.
Develop an Anti-Oppressive Behaviours at Work Guide: Create and distribute a guide that outlines anti-oppressive behaviours and practices to cultivate a respectful and equitable workplace environment.
If You See Something, Say Something: Encourage employees to speak out against racism and discrimination. If they see discriminatory rhetoric or behaviours in the workplace, they should swiftly check the behaviour and hold the perpetrators accountable.
Make an Internal Statement: Issue an internal statement about your thoughts on the current situation and express solidarity with racialized folks and immigrants. Leadership's visible support is crucial in these times.
Ask for Employee Feedback: If people come to you with concerns or fears, take the opportunity to ask them specifically what could help them right now. Our list is non-exhaustive, and no one-size-fits-all solution exists during ever-evolving situations like this. Tailor your support to meet the unique needs of your employees.
Be Flexible with Performance: Recognize that these times are extraordinarily stressful for many employees, particularly those from racialized backgrounds. Take a proactive approach in asking employees about their capacity and offer flexibility even if they don't ask for it.
Inclusive Initiatives for All Employees
Unless necessary, we recommend that any initiatives implemented during this time apply to all employees across the organization. This approach prevents further othering or isolating the individuals you aim to support. Given the deep-seated racism and prejudice that may exist within the organization, calling out specific individuals or groups can sometimes exacerbate negative perceptions and stigmatize those who are already vulnerable. Creating an inclusive environment means making adjustments and accommodations that benefit everyone, fostering a sense of unity and collective well-being. This inclusive strategy helps to address the underbelly of racism and ensures that all employees see support measures as fair and equitable.
Personal Note
On a personal note, my roots in the UK run deep. My grandma immigrated to England from Jamaica when she was a young single mother, and my dad was born in the UK. I want to express my love, solidarity, and support with people of colour and refugees during this tumultuous time. I never thought I'd look back at 2020 and wish we were back there—a small and brief moment when it felt like things were changing. The rise of blatant bigotry and racism being labelled as harrowing patriotism makes me sick, and it hurts my heart to see so many communities fighting for their fundamental right to be seen as human and equal while living in fear.