In November, the Alliance for Racial Justice brought together 32 participants for a two-day residential away day in Birmingham, with all but two member organisations represented. Over the two days, members reflected on the current political and social context, the challenges we face, and the work being led by individual organisations to tackle racism and advance racial justice.
The discussions provided a valuable opportunity to think collectively about the Alliance’s purpose and direction. By the close of the event, there was clear agreement that the Alliance will continue as a network of organisations committed to tackling racism by influencing government policy. Members also called for greater sharing of expertise and information, stronger collaboration, and better representation of the North and regions outside London in our collective influencing.
Concrete next steps were agreed, including revising the Alliance’s terms of reference and exploring the inclusion of new members, particularly Black, Asian and minoritised ethnic-led organisations representing disabled people. The structured sessions on the second day generated detailed material that will now be developed into a shared Theory of Change for the Alliance.
While the evaluation is still underway, participants expressed their appreciation for the opportunity to think and connect in a supportive environment. The Alliance is grateful to the Esmée Fairbairn Foundation for their support in making this important gathering possible.
