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Definition Redefined Dash
#DefinitionRedefined

Definition Redefined is an empowering call-to-action for all Black women in the UK, to redefine and claim ownership of our own narrative.

 

Introduction

Assumptions about a particular group of people are often based on the observer’s limited personal experiences or promulgated societal stereotypes.  This is often the case when it comes to expectations of Black women and their personalities, experiences, and behaviours.

The narrative about us is not our own. Black women in the UK are treated as if we were a monolithic group.  On the contrary, we are the most diverse group on the planet with varied backgrounds, cultures, and socio-economic statuses, different experiences, opinions and more. While society generalises Black women to embody certain stereotypes, such as being "loud" or "angry", these stereotypes do not apply to all Black women. Black women are just as likely to be soft-spoken, introverted, and non-confrontational as women of any other race. Extrapolating this, we could go further and say that when Black women are “loud” and “angry”, oftentimes they have reason to be.  Black women face unique challenges that are often overlooked or ignored.  They experience intersectional discrimination, which impacts their experiences in areas such as education, employment, healthcare. Indeed, every facet of their lives is shaped and impacted by external forces; the cause behind the many ‘institutional failings’ influencing lives of Black women.  The reason Black women are four times more likely to die in childbirth, is because it is assumed that they have higher pain thresholds than white women. The reason Black women are overrepresented in the criminal justice system and mental institutions – because they are perceived to be a threat due to being ‘angry’ and ‘aggressive’ and the reason Black women experience the worst rates of poverty is because they are nauseatingly impacted by the gender-race pay gap.  ​​​The examples of correlation are plenty.  For centuries, Black people have been racialised, defined, explained away to justify past colonial behaviours.  The narrative about us, is not our own. Soul Purpose 360 founder and CEO said: “The time is right to challenge and take ownership, by shaping our own narrative; by redefining the definitions that harm us. We need to evolve the discourse about us and move away from harmful stereotypes and assumptions about Black women, and instead recognise and celebrate our diversity, talents, achievements, and resilience. By doing so, we can work towards creating a more equitable and inclusive society for all.  Our campaign Definition Redefined is a multifaceted campaign, that includes a series of initiatives allowing Black women to play their part in social change.”  She continued: “To be successful, any such campaign must be a positively uplifting one; for to do it any other way, will play to the unjust narrative of Black women being ‘angry’, ‘loud’, ‘aggressive’ and ‘challenging’…. The current narrative means, we cannot even campaign for change the way others have the privilege to do.” In collaboration with Sharon Douglas pf Inkygrey Photography, Soul Purpose 360 launched a photographic exhibition at the International Women's Day conference. "Single Light" is a contemporary narrative that celebrates our beauty and splendour, that acknowledges the diversity within our communities and challenges historical perceptions grounded in racist ideologies.

Black Women's Anthology Book - Pre-order your copy!

To support our national campaign #DefinitionRedefined Soul Purpose 360 will be publishing a book the contents written exclusively by Black Women.  Book purchases will contribute to the campaigning funds to empower more Black women.  You can pre-order your book by following this link to Our Shop.

#DefinitionRedefined an Open Letter

We, the undersigned, stand in full support of the Definition Redefined campaign by Soul Purpose 360, which is committed to challenging and changing the harmful narrative surrounding Black women in Britain. We believe that the current narrative is deeply entwined with Britain’s colonial past and the enslavement of African people. This outdated and damaging perspective has shaped the foundation of institutionalised racist and sexist practices, policies, and attitudes in sections of British society. These views do not reflect the values of modern Britain. The time for change is now. Historical research and analysis have underscored the urgent need to re-evaluate and transform this narrative for the benefit of all. Black women make significant contributions to Britain’s social, economic, and political landscapes, despite the barriers created by these negative narratives. There is substantial evidence of racial inequalities towards Black Women across many aspects of UK life—from health to housing, education to employment, and crime and policing to criminal justice. We believe that these harmful perspectives are a key factor in the many instances where Black women are at a disadvantage, including, but not limited to, the following: Black women are four times more likely to die in childbirth. Black women are overrepresented in mental health institutions and the criminal justice system. Black women are more likely to experience racism in the workplace. Black women are more likely to be diagnosed with more advanced breast cancers and types with fewer treatment options, such as triple-negative breast cancer. Black women are more likely to suffer from common mental health issues compared to white women. Black women are affected by the gender-race pay gap, earning less than their peers. Black women are worst affected by the cost-of-living crisis... and much more! We also call attention to misogynoir, where the intersection of race and gender deepens the contempt, and entrenched prejudice against Black women. We believe that when considering policies where Black women are disproportionately impacted, it is essential to view these issues as interconnected rather than in isolation, to ensure a comprehensive understanding and response. There is an urgent need for in-depth research into the effects of racism and intersectionality from childhood onwards, including the internalised responses that lead to limiting beliefs and restricted life opportunities—issues that Soul Purpose 360 supports members with daily. As supporters of this open letter, we call for the following actions: Public condemnation of all individuals who use racist and sexist language to demean, harass, or bully Black women in public spaces, online, or in the media. Further research into the impacts of negative perceptions of Black women across all areas of life, to begin seeking justice and redress. Awareness-raising through the national curriculum for children and students, to break the historical cycle of discrimination that has persisted for hundreds of years. Funding to support the #DefinitionRedefined campaign, enabling it to reach and engage Black girls and women, empowering them to challenge microaggressions, harassment, and bullying in the workplace and education system without fear of reprisal. Funding is needed to conduct in-depth research to fully understand the profound impact that a negative narrative has on Black Women from early childhood through to adulthood. This research is crucial to inform the development of effective social policies that can drive meaningful and immediate social change. We call for immediate and concerted action to address these issues and to acknowledge the broader benefits and opportunities that racial diversity brings to British society. We urge you to stand with us in supporting the Definition Redefined campaign. Let us dismantle these outdated narratives and build a more inclusive and equitable Britain for everyone. Sign this letter. Raise your voice. Be the change.

YES! I want to sign the Open Letter

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Download a copy of the Open Letter in PDF format

Signatories - Add your name, Sign Today!

Sonia Ackun, Every3Seconds | Jenefer Adams | Shanna Adeniyi, Genevieve Event Rental | Valerie Bernard | Aminah Black, Gastronami | Sarah Blair-Reid | Lisa Broderick | Marlesha Brown | Irah Castro |Gloria Charlton | Francine Daley, 360 Lifestyle Support Network CIC | Robinah B Dent, Love Protectors Game | Siobhan Down, Yellow Brick Road Projects | Avionne Downing | Nyasha Duri | Arpita Dutt, Anti-Racist Alliance Trust | Jillian Edinboro | Fola Ekundayo, Hekuda Creative LTD | Beverley Fray |Jacqueline Glen | Grace Goodridge | Tanya Goodwin | Harriet Hatty | Diana Hayes, Seyahworldlove| Pamela Haynes DipSW DipHE BA FRSA |Marggrettia Henry-Lindo, Black Women Walk 24 |  Comfort Iyiewuare | Laura J | Nadi Jahangiri | Tracy Jenkins | Shanell Johnson | Adam Kamenetzky, Mabadiliko CIC | Aksa Malik, BPP |Tracy Manyan, Cavendish House Dental Practice | Dr. Rhoda Molife | Simba Mutahanna | Ursula Myrie, Adira | Danson Njoka | Roisin O’Leary | Yorkie Oaks | Suzanne Phipps-Cumberbatch |Norma Powell | Victoria Seaton, VSA Associates | Tanya Sinclair TNK Catering | May Smith | Harriet Summer, Noir Fusion | Natasha Ventour Hestia | Sylvana Walcott, Black Ops Consultancy | Claudia Webb | Mary Wedderburn, Just Like Granny's | Jennifer Williams, Jenesis Global Consultancy Ltd | Ramona Williams | Katie Wilson-Downie, Mandala Community Services |Carole Young | Tsitsi Chimbumu | Jenny Okona-Mensah | Karen Small | Jenefer Adams

A National Commission on Black Women & Girls

The Need for a National Commission

Black women and girls in Britain face multifaceted challenges that intersect across various aspects of life, including healthcare, housing, education, economic opportunity and social justice. Despite their significant contributions to society, they continue to experience systemic barriers that hinder their full potential This initiative is part of the #DefinitionRedefined campaign that aims to address the unique challenges faced by Black women and girls and to develop comprehensive strategies for their empowerment and advancement. Soul Purpose 360 believes that a National Commission dedicated to Black women and girls is crucial to driving policy changes and initiatives that address these issues at both national and community levels.

 

Call to Action

Soul Purpose 360 urges policymakers, community leaders, Black women’s organisations, trade unions, VCSE’s and ordinary citizens to support the establishment of this National Commission. By coming together, we can create a framework that not only addresses the immediate needs of Black women and girls but also lays the groundwork for long-term systemic change. Together, we can ensure a future where Black women and girls thrive and lead with confidence and dignity.

What is a National Commission?

A National Commission is a formal body established to investigate specific issues, gather data, and provide recommendations for policy and systemic changes. These commissions often bring together experts, stakeholders, and community leaders to examine challenges comprehensively and propose actionable solutions. Successful commissions have been instrumental in shaping policies and fostering societal changes by providing evidence-based insights and fostering collaboration across sectors.

 

Success Stories of National Commissions

National Commissions have proven successful in various contexts worldwide. For instance, the Equality and Human Rights Commission in the UK has effectively addressed issues of discrimination and inequality, leading to significant policy reforms. Similarly, the Truth and Reconciliation Commission in South Africa played a pivotal role in addressing past injustices and fostering national healing. These examples underscore the potential impact of a dedicated commission focused on the specific needs of Black women and girls.

 

Proposed Structure and Involvement

The proposed National Commission on Black Women and Girls should comprise a diverse group of stakeholders, including:

  • Government Representatives: Elected representatives and senior civil servants to ensure the commission's recommendations are aligned with national policies and can be effectively implemented.

  • Community Leaders: To provide insights into the unique challenges faced by Black women and girls in different regions, communities and different areas of life.

  • Academic and Research Experts: To contribute data-driven analysis and innovative solutions to the issues at hand

  • Non-Profit and Advocacy Organisations: To represent the voices of those directly affected and ensure that the commission's work is grounded in real-world experiences.

  • Black Women and Girls: To ensure that the lived experiences of those the commission aims to serve are at the forefront of its efforts.

Sign up to be a part of the Commission

If you would like to be a part of the Commission, please email us at info@soulpurpose360.co.uk to learn more.

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