Because black lives and careers matter
Hello my name is Funke Bella and I am a Senior Radiographer at Newham Hospital. I am originally from Nigeria but came to this country in 2004 to begin my studies.
Many of you will be aware of the recent murder of George Floyd, an African American man who was killed by police during an arrest in Minneapolis last month. The topic of racism has, rightly so, dominated public discussions in a way that it hasn’t for a long time and in a way that, quite frankly, has been long overdue. Understandably, some may find the thought of progressing the dialogue on racism in the UK a little overwhelming. Perhaps because you’re afraid to say the wrong thing. I’d like to urge you to reconsider your thinking, saying nothing in the face of adversity is far worse.
One of the reasons I left my previous Trust was because of obvious inequality due to race. I was denied opportunities to progress and I was advised by colleagues not to bother to fight the ‘system’ because no one will listen to me and nothing will change. I didn’t challenge management for fear of being labeled ‘an angry black woman’ and after years of hard work and dedication I was left feeling defeated. I decided to leave.
However, looking back I wish I had spoken up and held those who made me feel inferior to account. I have learnt you can’t just give up and it is wrong for this kind of behaviour to be allowed to carry on. The progression and wellbeing of NHS staff is of paramount importance in enabling us to provide good care to the people we look after. With 50% of Barts Health staff coming from BAME backgrounds (and a higher percentage at Newham), a fundamental part of this is championing equality in everything we do, only then will we change the system.
My experience of racism is one of many and there are many other instances of people being treated negatively because of their race, whether subtly or outright, both in the NHS and beyond. It’s time now to have these difficult conversations and make meaningful change.
I am proud to be black, I am proud to be a woman, I am proud to be a radiographer and I am proud to stand against inequality in all forms in all spheres of life. I hope that in reading this, whether you are black, white, Asian or from any other ethnic minority, you will stand with me.
There is so much strength in diversity and it’s important now more than ever that we not only celebrate it but wield it.