October is Black History Month, and an opportunity to reflect and celebrate past accomplishments of Black pioneers and trailblazers who may not have received the same accolades as non diverse achievers.

However, whilst I personally use the opportunity to educate myself further and fill the gaps left by my British education, I thought to myself, this year I will take a different approach to my celebrations.

I have asked myself, who will be the pioneers of the future? Who will my future grandchildren hear about, look up to, admire and strive to emulate?

I feel that too often we wait for ‘greatness’ as defined by national and international bodies made up of people of influence, as though endorsements do not count unless from others already acknowledged.

However, I disagree with this approach, and believe that it is time to think differently and acknowledge that our future inspirational role models are likely to already be among us.

With this in mind, let’s think about the many guises they may already be wearing. I strongly believe that by focusing on ‘pioneers’ in the traditional sense, there is a risk that those who are quietly striving to do their best to make a difference within their field may be overlooked. These individuals by encouraging, guiding and endorsing the small wins of others are the ones often making a real difference.  These are the individuals who nurture, support, champion and celebrate the bravery of the silent and encourage them to begin to make their voices heard are all worthy of recognition.

The theme of this year’s Black History Month is “Saluting our Sisters”, an opportunity to pay homage to black women whose contributions were ignored and their voices silenced.  So, in honour of them, I wish to acknowledge the Black doctors, nurses, midwives , educators, researchers, health campaigners, pharmacists, and faith leaders, whose names may not appear in lights but the impact they are making in encouraging the next generation to aim high is phenomenal.

I salute you all.

Carolin Tomlinson
Reducing Inequalities Lead

Date published: 30 October 2023