The disgraceful and socially destructive actions of a violent and bigoted minority are causing deep divisions within our society. While the great majority of us are appalled by these actions, we must not overlook the fact that, for many people, this is more than just unrest—this is about their daily lives and safety. In these troubling times, employers have a heightened duty of care. Now is the time to step up, step forward, be proactive, and offer unwavering support to employees who may be struggling.
It’s a terribly sad day when my young daughter can’t feel safe going to and from work on her own. We have witnessed appalling violence and abuse; the racism is also pouring out on social media. This is wrong and needs to be stopped. Employers must take the lead; show care and empathy and ensure their workplaces remain the safe places they have worked so hard to create.
Work as a Safe Place
Amidst such tension and high-running emotions, employers may be wondering how best to help their employees. Here are steps business can take to create a supportive environment:
Keep Lines of Communication Open
One of the most effective ways to support employees during times of racial unrest is by keeping the lines of communication open. Reach out to your employees, offer a listening ear, and ask how they are doing. It’s crucial to provide safe spaces for employees to express their feelings and concerns. These conversations should be approached with empathy and without judgment. By fostering an environment where employees feel comfortable speaking openly, employers can better understand the unique challenges their employees face and respond more effectively.
Show Empathy and Understanding
Recognising the emotional and mental toll that racial unrest can have on employees is essential. Understand that employees might be distracted, anxious, or distressed during these times. Empathy goes a long way in building trust and showing employees that their well-being is a priority. Employers should acknowledge the difficulties their employees may be facing and offer support in any way they can.
Give Practical Support
Practical support is vital when employees feel unsafe or uncertain. If any employees feel uneasy about coming into work, offer flexible work arrangements, such as remote work options or adjusted hours. Additionally, ensure employees have access to mental health resources, such as counselling services or Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs). These resources can provide much-needed support for those grappling with the emotional impact of the situation.
Promote Training and Allyship
In times of racial unrest, reaffirming your commitment to diversity and inclusion is crucial. Provide training on racial sensitivity and allyship to foster a more inclusive and supportive work culture. This training can help employees understand how to be effective allies and support their colleagues who may be affected by racial tension. Additionally, review workplace policies to ensure they are equitable and do not inadvertently contribute to systemic racism. A workplace that prioritises education and allyship is one that can stand strong against divisive forces.
Lead by Example
Leadership plays a pivotal role in setting the tone for how an organisation responds to racial unrest. Leaders should be visible in their support for racial justice; use your platform to speak out and show support. By taking a firm stand against racism and discrimination, leaders can inspire their employees to do the same. This not only strengthens the organisation’s culture but also sends a powerful message that intolerance has no place in the workplace.
Encourage Community Engagement and Support
Supporting affected communities is another crucial aspect of responding to racial unrest. Show solidarity by supporting these communities through whatever means will have the most impact. This could include making donations, volunteering, or participating in community outreach programs. Additionally, accommodate employees who need time to process or participate in community actions. Allowing time off for employees to support their communities can be a powerful way to show that the organisation values their well-being and is committed to making a positive difference.
Prioritising Employee Safety in the Workplace
It is important to acknowledge that many people who participate in riots or other forms of unrest may be in the workplace the next day. This reality underscores the need for employers to create safe spaces where all employees feel protected and respected. Employers must be vigilant in calling out and immediately acting on any unacceptable behaviour, whether it occurs inside or outside the workplace. Visible and decisive actions are paramount in regaining trust, support, and unity among employees.
The Importance of Allyship in the Workplace
We really need allies to speak up and speak out loud. With so many people living in fear, we need employers and employees to stand alongside each other and show those who want to spread division and hatred that they are wrong and their words and actions have no place in our workplaces or wider society.
Allyship is not just about standing in solidarity; it’s about taking actionable steps to support those who are marginalised and oppressed. In the workplace, this means speaking out against injustice, providing support to those who need it, and working actively to create a more inclusive environment.
Paul Sesay
Paul Sesay is the Founder and CEO of Inclusive Companies Limited, the National Diversity Awards, the Inclusive Top 50 UK Employers List, Inclusive Awards and D&I recruitment company Precedent Group. Paul is a leading figure across the Diversity, Equality and Inclusion sector, having worked with some of the largest organisations in the world on their D&I profiles. Paul continues to work holistically with diverse communities across the UK.
