Keisha Gordon-Salmon shares what Black History Month means to her
To celebrate Black History Month, we have been sharing staff stories from our ‘sisters’ on what Black History Month means to them.
We caught up with Keisha Gordon-Salmon (our Race Equality Network co-chair) 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 Keisha Gordon-Salmon, Trust Monitoring Officer
What does Black History Month mean to you?
Black History Month means for me is the appreciation and acknowledgement of our contribution towards our society and our local community, it’s the recognition of our Black Men and Women, showcasing our culture. Black history month for me is a celebration of our people before us and their motivation to always strive for the greatness and for us to continue the work they have started to empower and be a constant reminder that we can do greatness in all we do.
How do you recognise Black History Month?
I recognise Black History Month by posting our history on social media and having convocation (a large gathering) with friends and family and reminiscing on old times.
The theme this year is ‘Saluting Our Sisters’ what is your favourite contribution from a black woman?
My favourite contribution from a black woman is Mary Seacole, I cannot stop reading about her and her contribution towards our society.
But I have to give it to my current sisters, most of which I have known for years.
- Leonia Green - Extraordinary woman, always willing to help
- Leila Howe- for the powerful works she have done and still doing
- Dianne Wilson – Always willing to help
- Andrea Knowles – There is not a dull moment with her, her smiles makes your day
- Ernestina Boafo – Hard working, nothing two hard for her to do
What could the Trust do make sure that our diverse staff group is celebrated all year round?
We do promote inclusivity and diversity at work but we are not seeing a big impact. We need to do more to educate our staff and also me being a part of the REN network we can see that we need to do more in breaking down the barriers. Black history is not just one month it’s on all year thing, whereby people should support one another in celebrating their achievements and create an openness and fair culture.
