Today marks a significant milestone in the UK Parliament with the establishment of the new Parliamentary Black Caucus, a cross-party gathering of Black and minoritised Members of Parliament and Lords dedicated to advancing racial equality, equity, justice and representation for all.
The newly-formed Caucus, similar to the well-known US Congressional Black Caucus, comprises UK parliamentarians from across party lines. This launch coincides with the final day of the American Black History Month.
The Parliamentary Black Caucus aims to build a society where Black and minoritised people, and therefore all people, are free from harm and empowered.
It will advocate for policies addressing the challenges disproportionately faced by Black and minoritised communities, from combating institutional racism to tackling disparities in the police service, immigration, education, healthcare, employment, housing, the criminal justice system and much more.
Dawn Butler, MP for Brent East and Founding Chair of the new Caucus, said:
"I’m honoured to launch the Parliamentary Black Caucus – this is a historic step toward dismantling entrenched racial inequalities and ensuring Parliament reflects the diversity of the communities it serves.
I put on record our appreciation and admiration for those who came before us, the first Black Caucus – we stand on the shoulders of giants. Now, we must continue progress towards equality and equity.
Black communities make the UK the successful, vibrant and diverse place that it is today. We are politicians, doctors, nurses, bus drivers, artists, refuse collectors, entrepreneurs, journalists, judges, shop assistants, teachers, lawyers and the list goes on. For years, we have worked to hold up important services that everyone relies on.
Despite this, we are still subject to structural racism. This needs to change, to ensure that the country is fair, no matter where you live, the colour of your skin or what class you are. So, I’m excited to be working with colleagues to deliver equality, equity and justice for all – and I look forward to more colleagues joining the Caucus soon."
Key Objectives of the Parliamentary Black Caucus:
Promoting inclusive and effective representation within Parliament.
Championing policies that address racial inequality and social justice.
Providing a united platform for Parliamentarians to collaborate across political lines.
Honouring the legacy of the trailblazers who have fought tirelessly for equality and diversity.
The Caucus will operate transparently, engaging with stakeholders, community leaders, and parliamentary groups to drive meaningful change.
It seeks to empower and support Black councillors, mayors, politicians & our active accomplices to pursue fairer policies & build fairer societies for us all.
Membership is open to all Black and minoritised MPs and Members of the House of Lords, with a shared commitment to building a fairer and more inclusive society.
Founding members include: Dawn Butler MP, Diane Abbott MP, Lord Bailey of Paddington, Lord Woolley of Woodford, Josh Babarinde MP.
Other members include: Marsha De Cordova MP, Clive Lewis MP, Kim Johnson MP, Paulette Hamilton MP, Kate Osamor MP, Bell Ribeiro-Addy MP. More to follow.
Parliamentary Black Caucus website: https://parliamentaryblackcaucus.uk/
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Notes:
For media inquiries, please contact: [email protected]
Dawn Butler MP's social media launch post: https://x.com/DawnButlerBrent/status/1895444991478313353