The Royal Borough of Greenwich is taking a stand for Race Equality Week, a nationwide movement aimed at addressing race inequality in workplaces across the country. From 3 to 9 February, the initiative unites organisations to reflect on and confront the barriers faced by people of all racial backgrounds in the workforce. The Royal Borough of Greenwich is lending its full support, both internally for staff and externally to encourage local businesses to join the growing number of signatories to the Council’s Equality and Equity charter.
As part of its ongoing efforts, the Council is inviting local organisations to sign the charter, which already counts 560 supporters, including recent additions like The World Reimagined, Thamesmead Community Choir, and Community Empowerment and Support Initiatives UK. The charter represents a collective commitment to promoting equality, diversity, and inclusion across the borough. Additionally, the recipients of all 67 Voluntary and Community sector grants awarded by the Council from 2023 to 2027 have pledged to sign the charter, further reinforcing the message of unity in promoting racial equality.
“Every positive action we take, big or small, is a step towards true equality and equity.” – Councillor Sandra Bauer
Councillor Sandra Bauer, Cabinet Member for Equality, Culture and Communities, highlighted the significance of this year’s Race Equality Week theme, “Every Action Counts.” She emphasised that even the smallest actions contribute to achieving greater equality. “Race equality is everyone’s responsibility,” Bauer said, adding that a range of activities would be available throughout the week for council staff to learn how to challenge race inequality and drive positive change.
“The Council’s Equality and Equity Charter outlines our commitment to promoting equality, diversity, and inclusion,” Bauer continued. “We’re also working on a new anti-racism strategy to further strengthen our position.”
The Council’s call to action is clear: organisations that share the same values of inclusivity are encouraged to sign the charter and make their own contributions towards a welcoming and safe environment for all within Royal Greenwich.
Local signatories have already been taking steps to improve racial equality within their organisations. Initiatives include organising events to celebrate marginalised groups, such as social activities and cookery clubs, as well as offering workshops focused on Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI). Many organisations have also undertaken internal reviews and improved the representation of diverse voices, including diversifying trustees and volunteers.
As part of the year-round commitment to racial equality, Greenwich continues to celebrate Black history through its Black History 365 event programme, reinforcing its dedication to making the borough an inclusive, diverse, and welcoming space for everyone.
