What Black History Month means to Andrea Knowles
This week, we caught up with Andrea Knowles to find out more about what Black History Month means to her, how she celebrates the month, and the changes she would like to see at CHS.
An honest and unedited blog entry from Andrea Knowles, Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Lead.
What does Black History Month mean to you?
Due to my role (EDI in 2 previous Trust), Black History Month (and a few months prior) are busy, however, I love it.
For me, it is a time of reflection and pride. It’s a chance to hear stories, speak to Elders.
How do you recognise Black History Month?
I like to visit BHM specials in galleries and theatres and watch Webinars. I will sit on the couch with nice, warming food and watch a 2 hour webinar, no problem. I rarely watch TV but there are 3 times a year where I look forward to watching films, programmes and documentaries; Christmas, Halloween and Black History Month!
The theme this year is ‘Saluting Our Sisters’ what is your favourite contribution from a black woman?
I can’t. She’s my boss. Will spare her blushes.
However, I have met some amazing, open, friendly, intelligent, knowledgeable, learned, conscious, and beautiful Black Women in my brief time at CHS. Too many to mention but special shout out to;
- Andrea Benjamin – Forthright, straight-talking, wonderful dance tutor.
- Sharling Bovell – The only one I knew when I walked through the door – So welcoming and still remembered me.
- Yemisi Gibbons – Invaluable advisor. We could talk for hours on culture. Really gets me thinking and ideas pinging.
- Efua Hagan –Beautiful, intelligent, professional and always there for advice. Four words…South Asian Heritage Month.
- Leila Howe – Extraordinary woman.
- Yvonne Nelson – My girl and confidante.
- Keisha Salmon – My E&F girl. Always there.
- Marian Russell – Has literally been there all my life and we can laugh so hard we can barely breathe. Very practical and very beautiful.
What could the Trust do make sure that our diverse staff group is celebrated all year round?
Be culturally aware. Be respectful and willing to learn. We are many but there is only one CHS. Celebrate those differences and take time to learn from each other.
- Someone expresses themselves differently? Great stuff!
- They laugh and speak louder than you? Isn’t it great to be so expressive?
- Their name is very different to yours? Practice saying it until you get it right. It may make someone’s day.
We are all so different and that is a wonderful thing. Cross-cultural awareness makes us so open to learn from things we are not familiar, be they attitudes, practices, or behaviours. It also improves collaboration with patients and helps them respond with flexibility.
