From 3rd to 9th February, we will observe Race Equality Week 2025, an annual UK-wide initiative uniting organisations and individuals to tackle barriers to race equality in the workplace.

This year's theme, #EveryActionCounts, emphasizes the importance of individual and collective actions in driving meaningful change. Recent insights from Race Equality Matters highlight that only 40% of their community believes their organisation focuses on action, change, and impact, rather than just words. Additionally, 26% feel that less than a quarter of allies are actively contributing to addressing race inequality, and while 64% report that senior leaders are committed to tackling race inequality, only 46% perceive these leaders as making a tangible impact.

At the University of Sussex, we are steadfast in our commitment to eliminating racial inequalities and fostering an inclusive culture. In September 2023, we received the Race Equality Charter Institutional Bronze award. This achievement reflects not only our commitment but also our recognition of the challenges we face in advancing race equity. We remain focused on identifying key areas for improvement and developing meaningful actions to address these issues, ensuring continuous progress towards a more inclusive and equitable environment.

Our Ethnic Minority Staff Network, relaunched in 2022, continues to provide a supportive space for staff identifying as part of a minority ethnic group. The network meets termly, offering opportunities to connect, share ideas, and discuss strategies to further reduce inequalities and celebrate diversity at Sussex. If you wish to join, please email bame-staff@sussex.ac.uk.

We encourage all staff to participate in Race Equality Week by engaging with the following resources and support mechanisms:

• Further EDI Training: Explore additional training opportunities to deepen your understanding of equality, diversity, and inclusion. Equality, Diversity and Inclusion: Online learning
• Learn More about the Race Equality Charter (REC): Familiarise yourself with the principles and objectives of the REC to better understand our institutional commitments. Race Equality Charter
• Report and Support Tool: If you experience or witness bullying or harassment, please report it through our Report + Support tool.

By embracing the ethos of #EveryActionCounts, we can collectively contribute to a more equitable and inclusive environment at Sussex. Let us all take meaningful actions, no matter how small, to drive the change we aspire to see.

For more information on Race Equality Week and how to get involved, please visit Race Equality Matters.

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