Our fight against a system of inequality and injustice

For decades, we have witnessed the same tragic stories repeating in our media - instances of violence, discrimination, and systemic failure that affect Black people, and in many cases predominantly Black women and girls. The realities of domestic and structural violence, inadequate healthcare responses, and institutional neglect are not new; they have existed for generations and continue to harm our communities. Leaving Black women and girls vulnerable and unheard. 

From the streets to the courtrooms, we are often dismissed, silenced, or treated with contempt - vilified and dehumanised, especially when we’re fighting for justice. Systemic disparities perpetuate violence and trauma in our communities. 

Those in positions of power - whether in government, law enforcement, media, education or social services - need to wake up and acknowledge these injustices.

By continuing to confront these issues head-on, we can bring them to the forefront of conversation and demand the change that is long overdue. Our tolerance for empty promises and complacency has long been depleted - with our lives evermore at stake.

The realities of the Black woman's narrative - Same Fight. Different Decade.

From the tireless activism of trailblazers who fiercely fought against racial injustice and inequality, to the enduring courage of modern activists standing resolutely on the front lines and those pushing for change from within the system, the struggle for justice persists. With their unique perspectives shaped by years of advocacy and experience, these relentless voices of change underscore that the challenges faced by marginalised communities demand not only grassroots action but also transformative policies. They highlight the undeniable truth that Black women and their allies are not just essential - they are powerful forces for creating a fairer society.

Yet, the stories of countless victims of domestic abuse, women facing systemic oppression, and marginalised communities enduring social and economic disparities show that the fight is far from over. From the ongoing issues of inadequate housing for victims of abuse, to the criminal injustices and institutionalised racism that permeate our systems, dysfunctional migration policies that further marginalise vulnerable populations, and healthcare disparities that disproportionately affect Black women - it is clear that conditions have not improved. The struggles may evolve, but the narratives stay very much the same. 

The fight for equality remains as urgent as ever. It is crucial that we continue to expose how the systemic neglect that permeates our healthcare, housing, migration, and criminal justice systems, and the persistent institutionalised racism within these structures, leaves Black women - particularly victims of violence - without the care, protection, and resources we rightfully deserve. All this, together with a chronic lack of funding for vital by-and-for specialist services, creates deep inequalities and lasting damage that holds our communities back. It hinders Black women and girls who have been victims of violence, from progressing, seeing justice, and finding the empowerment they need to grow and survive beyond violence. Ultimately, these failures continue to undermine any chance of real change and healing for generations to come.

Imkaan will continue to call out these failures, highlighting the ways in which the system has, and still is, letting our community down. And we continually seek to spotlight the stories that have been lost and truths that have been overshadowed, particularly those of Black women who have faced violence and systemic inequalities. We honour the invaluable contributions of Black women throughout history, and how their resilience has shaped society, especially in the fight against violence against women and girls, and although we see the purpose in celebrating and honouring our history during Black History Month - this isn’t just about remembrance; it’s about demanding that these narratives be acknowledged, respected, and acted upon.

We challenge the power structures that seek to control our narratives, reminding them that we will not be silenced. Our truths matter, and systems that perpetuate harm and inequality in the UK, need to be dismantled.

Celebrating Resilience

This month and beyond, we also salute our Black members who show unwavering resilience and strength in the face of adversity, every single day. Their unique inspirations, backgrounds, and experiences drive their commitment to the movement. We stand in awe of their courage and tenacity, recognising that our community is not just surviving but actively shaping its own future with an unbreakable spirit.

A call for systemic change and accountability

We invite our audience to continue to engage with us, not just this month - but every month. Share our message and amplify the voices that need to be heard and stories that need to be remembered - without the narrative being tweaked to suit a mainstream, sanitised version of the truth. Recognise these issues and challenge the dominant narratives that have long served to erase Black women and girls’ experiences. Awareness is the first step towards change. 

And while Black History Month is an opportunity to shine a line on these inequalities and injustices, let’s be clear that this is a year-round battle. We need constant dialogue, fierce advocacy, and unwavering action - beyond the month of October. It’s not just about acknowledging our past; it’s about taking full control of our future. And it takes all of us to truly create a space where Black women girls can thrive without fear. 

We echo that enough is enough. We will not shy away from calling out the disparities for what they are - naked injustices. It’s long been the time for those in power to step up, take control, and enact real, lasting change. We cannot have the same narratives that plagued our elders and ancestors, to plague us in another 10, 20, or 50 years.