Zest

Black Lives Matter. Zest Statement of Intent.

The killing of George Floyd in Minnesota has led to a powerful wave of community led action and protest against structural racism and its impact on people’s lives, experienced both here and across the international community. We stand in solidarity with the Black Lives Matter (BLM) movement and recognise the need to accelerate change. This is an important time for all of us to consider what we can do as individuals and what we can do collectively to promote anti-racism.

 Action must follow if we are to bring about change. To this end, Zest will be forming an BLM Action Group to consider and agree the steps we need to take, which, in the first instance, will be about improving our understanding. To make this process meaningful we will need to listen to you all, and in particular, the black and other ethnic minority voices in our organisation and the wider community.

 This process will be challenging, but is fundamental to fulfilling our vision and mission to enable everyone in our communities to lead successful and healthy lives.

 You will hear more in the days ahead about the Action Group and how you can get involved.

 Our Youth Team have been thinking about what BLM means to them, and these personal reflections will help to motivate and drive our future intent.

 “Always believe that you are important no matter what anyone says or how they treat you. Always believe that you can achieve no matter what obstacles/ oppression/ perceptions you may face. Always be proud of your race, support each other instead of hurting each other. BLACK LIVES MATTER.”      Sonya, Zest Youth Work lead.

 “…people are starting to open up and accept that there is racism in 2020 and people of all races want to do something about it…we must continue to stand together for what is right…keep using our voices, together we can make a change…”    Sami, Zest Youth worker.

 “To me, Black Lives Matter doesn’t mean that only black lives matter, it is a movement calling out for Equality and Justice for people of colour all around the world…BLM is about raising awareness of the daily struggles that black people face and taking action to create a fairer future for the next generation.”     Beth, Zest Youth Worker.

Kind regards

Matt Dean, Chief Executive

On behalf of the Zest Board of Trustees and Zest Management Team

Check out latest news from Zest

Autumn 2019 newsletter

Summer 2019 newsletter