This weekend was heartbreaking and scary for parts of our cities in the UK. The media, partly responsible, called it a protest or riot instead of what it was: a small, well-planned act of targeted racism and Islamophobia. We can’t challenge it if we don’t call it what it is.

As we head back to work today, some organisations may need help supporting their staff, who are burdened with the weight of these events impacting their communities. 

While one of the main instigators was sunning himself on holiday and posting regular encouragement on the social media platform X, disturbing videos of violence were and are live-streamed on TikTok.

International impact

Malaysia has become the first country to issue a travel warning to its citizens visiting the UK following a week of dangerous and violent protests. Now, Nigeria and the UAE are also advising precautions.

Our government’s response

As we wait for our government to reassure the affected and targeted communities and call out the riots for what they actually are: Racism and Islamophobia with a massive dose of white supremacy, we must ensure the workplace is a space where people can feel safe. 

Although the agitators of hate are small and do not represent the working-class communities they hid behind, we must not ignore their lasting impact. Like in the 1970s, unity is our strongest act in fighting back. In our respective roles, each of us has a crucial part to play in this fight.

Let’s start by calling these riots out for what they are: Racism, Islamophobia and White supremacy!

Here are four steps for organisations committed to creating a safer, more inclusive environment:

1. Implement Comprehensive Training Programs

Provide ongoing education on cultural competency, antiracism, and allyship. Equip all employees to understand and intervene against racism and Islamophobia. This education should not be a one-time event but an ongoing effort to build a more informed and supportive workplace culture.

2. Create Safe Spaces for Dialogue

Establish support groups and regular forums for employees to share experiences and concerns without fear of retaliation. Facilitate these spaces with trained professionals who can guide constructive conversations and provide necessary resources. Creating these safe spaces allows employees to feel heard and supported.

3. Review and Revise Policies

Conduct a thorough review of your company’s policies to ensure they explicitly prohibit discriminatory behaviour and support victims of racism and Islamophobia. Enforce these policies consistently and establish precise, confidential reporting mechanisms. Policies should be living documents that evolve with the needs of the workforce and the external environment.

4. Promote Misinformation Awareness

Educate employees on identifying and combating misinformation, especially regarding minority communities. Provide resources and training to prevent the spread of harmful stereotypes and biases. By equipping employees with the tools to discern and challenge misinformation, organisations can mitigate the negative impact of false narratives.

Start or continue your antiracism work: 

Becoming an anti-racist organisation is a lifelong, active journey. It’s time to act and address the needs of all our employees while fostering growth within our organisations. Let’s commit to making a lasting change together. We have a crucial role in creating a more inclusive environment, and our collective efforts can make a significant difference.

Book a clarity call with us to help you move forward. 

Solidarity to our community in need:

To our colleagues, friends, and neighbours in the Muslim, Asian, African, and Arabic communities, and to those currently seeking asylum and refuge, we promise unity and an end to division. Stay safe, seek help within your community, and protect your mind and children by limiting exposure to distressing news. Keep your emergency numbers and contacts logged on your phones.

We can build a better, more inclusive future with our collective efforts and commitment. Let's stay hopeful and inspired as we work towards this common goal.