HS2 and SCS were among the organisations who held events to mark Black History Month in October.
HS2, SCS, Flannery Plant Hire, Mott MacDonald and Danny Sullivan Group collaboratively hosted a highly successful educational day during Black History Month to discuss how we can better address the skills gap and equality, diversity and inclusion throughout the industry. The day involved three panel discussions and two keynote speakers, followed by networking.
The aim was to create a safe space for stories to be shared, giving everybody the chance to feel uplifted and empowered and motivating people to implement changes.
Martin Mirimo, Lead Supply Chain Manager at SCS, was among the organisers and was a member of one of the panel discussions during the event.
“The event exceeded my expectations. The turnout was amazing. Everyone who attended said they wanted more of this kind of event,” says Martin.
So how can the supply chain make a difference during Black History Month and beyond?
“Businesses in the construction sector must identify and implement short-term and long-term goals, rather than just celebrating the concept of diversity during October,” emphasises Martin. “This is part of a long-term supplier diversity programme to develop our supply chain and focus on minority-owned businesses who represent underrepresented groups.”
HS2 also ran a number of other virtual events through its REACH network, which were open to SCS staff.
What is Black History Month?
Black History Month was first held in the UK in 1987. It is an opportunity to celebrate historic black figures and culture, and a chance to think about how each one of us can contribute to building an inclusive culture for everyone on our project.
The theme for 2022 was Time for change: actions not words, highlighting that while it is important to celebrate, we also need to acknowledge and address the inequalities which still exist.
Find out more at blackhistorymonth.org.uk
