#BlackLivesMatter: a thread. 1/ Like most people of colour, I have experienced #racism, but I've learned more profoundly how it plays out in everyday life since I joined the #NHS.
2/ It’s in the #NHS that I’ve had the privilege of learning from those who care tirelessly for others despite being systematically disadvantaged. Many of us are feeling hurt and hopeless right now. There is some anger. Whatever you are feeling, it is valid.
3/ For years it has fallen to people of colour to educate others, to fight for basic rights and privileges some take for granted. But many are tired. What has happened to #GeorgeFloyd and others has triggered painful memories of personal experiences.
4/ While it’s appropriate that many should look to me to lead the #NHS response to this debate, it is not something I can or should do alone. We need our white friends, colleagues and citizens to step into this space with us.
5/ I'll continue to do whatever I can to change experiences for black, Asian and minority ethnic colleagues. I want to be the best ally I can possibly be, and to hear how.
6/ Thank you to those of you who continue to show up despite feeling anxious and hurt. Thank you to BAME staff networks who continue to share your lived experience so authentically. Thank you to those who continue to have difficult conversations, often in hostile environments.
7/ We need to hold the space that has been so tragically opened up to create real, lasting change. White colleagues, please ask how your colleagues are doing, and consider how you can use your platform to boost others’.
8/ I will focus this coming week on amplifying the voices of black colleagues through my account where I can, and I ask others to do the same. #Blacklivesmatter #OurNHSPeople
