April 16, 2024
In this blog Isaac Samuels shares their reflections from hearing the challenges faced by those from racialised backgrounds and global majority communities within co-production spaces.
Over the past eight months, our focus has centred on supporting individuals from racialised backgrounds and global majority communities to come together and share their experiences of co-production. This vital work has been made possible through the invaluable support of People's Voice Media and Co-Production Collective. This blog has been written by Co-Production Collective co-producer and Community Reporter Isaac Samuels who has been working on this piece of work.
Our journey has illuminated the systemic nature of racism within co-production spaces and the profound harm it inflicts. Through candid conversations, storytellers have shed light on the everyday challenges faced by those from global majority communities within these spaces. These discussions have underscored the urgent need for inclusivity and diversity in co-production, as well as the necessity of engaging in difficult dialogues to effect meaningful change.
It's important to acknowledge the emotional toll of this work. While it has been emotionally challenging, it has also been tremendously rewarding. We owe immense gratitude to all participants for their time and contributions. Recognising and valuing each individual's input is crucial, especially in the face of systemic racism that often overlooks the unique perspectives of marginalised voices.
Our reflections have revealed several key themes. Firstly, the acknowledgment that co-production spaces can perpetuate racism and exclusion. This realisation may be uncomfortable, but it's imperative for progress. Secondly, the ongoing commitment to creating inclusive spaces, despite the inherent challenges and the inevitability of encountering harm along the way.
While we recognise the long road ahead, there is a shared vision and hope for a truly inclusive co-production space—one where racism has no foothold. The work continues, the emotional labour persists, but so does the determination to effect meaningful change.
As we navigate this journey, we are reminded of the power of collective action and the transformative potential of genuine dialogue. Together, we can create a future where every voice is heard, valued, and respected.
In the words of one of our story sharers, Yasmin: "Everybody's talking about racism, but nobody really wants to create a platform and space to come together to solve it." Let us not only talk but actively work towards creating those platforms and spaces for change.
Thank you for being a part of this journey towards a more just and equitable co-production landscape. We will keep you updated as this work progresses.
If you have any questions or would like to know more about our work, please get in contact by emailing us on coproduction@ucl.ac.uk.
Photo Credit: Canva
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