Our Race Matters report on the experiences of Black staff has shown that Black staff are not only underrepresented at all levels, but are also facing a range of barriers in students’ unions. This under-representation requires urgent attention and it’s time for student’s unions to talk about race. This is especially true if we’re going to effectively represent the diversity of our membership.

The Race Matters report concluded that creating a culture in a union that not only embeds race equality but actively promotes it requires leadership. Leaders in the student movement need to instigate this culture change proactively and begin by creating a narrative that addresses race inequality and increasing Black representation. Without this collective commitment, the pace of change will be slow.

Addressing this lack of Black representation is everyone’s responsibility. Therefore, to build on the momentum for action from this report NUS is holding its first ever Race Matters Summit on 3 March. By bringing together senior leaders, we aim to start the process of creating a roadmap for change. Some of the themes being exploring during the day will be: why employers need to talk about race, where to start with race equality in the workplace, how to be an ally to Black staff and officers, how to attract talent and practice inclusive leadership. Through attending the Summit unions will also be pledging to support the Race Matters agenda and improve ethnic diversity in the student movement. 

The overarching aim of the Summit is to empower and inspire students’ unions to address the lack of Black representation in the student movement and champion race equality. It will also:

• provide a forum for senior leaders to discuss and define practical solutions on what the student movement should do to increase Black staff representation,
• explore the current lack of Black representation in the student movement and UK workforce,
• consider good practice examples from a range of organisations, including students’ unions,
• hear from inspiring leaders in the field of race equality, diversity and inclusion, such as:
  • Sandra Kerr OBE, Race Equality Director, Business in the Community
  • Omar Khan Director, at Runnymede Trust
  • Dan Robertson, Diversity & Inclusion Director at Employers Network for Equality & Inclusion

Who can attend?

The Summit is for:

• CEOs
• Presidents
• External trustees
• Liberation, Equality and Diversity leads
• Unions will be provided one reserved place for delegate who defines as Black*.

*Black is used an inclusive term to represent those from African, Arab, Asian, Caribbean and South American communities.

Delegation Entitlement

Unions can send up to 5 delegates to the Summit