‘… alone we know a little, but together we know a lot. This work doesn’t belong to any one person or group, it’s everyone’s work to do together.’ – Britt Hawthorne
Who
The forum is a collaboration between academics and independent Bristol settings. We come together to act as facilitators of a warm, safe and inclusive space to reflect and act together on anti-racist practice. The forum is open to all those who work in a professional role with young children, regardless of where you are on your anti-racist practice journey.
The forum started in 2022, when Izzy and Beth from Easton Community Children’s Centre reached out to Erin from Hotwells Children’s House after we all attended training by Liz Pemberton (The Black Nursery Manager). We had all observed how difficult settings were finding it to embed and maintain anti-racist practice and wanted to create something to support practitioners on their journeys. We clearly situate ourselves as facilitators, rather than experts or leaders. As three white women we have no experience comparable to a lived experience of racism, and learn alongside forum attendees.
In June 2023, Izzy reached out to Dr. Shaddai Tembo who is an Early years lecturer, writer, speaker, trainer, consultant, trustee and former practitioner. Shaddai has volunteered his time to help facilitate the forum this year and brings a wealth of knowledge, experience and research on the topic.
What
We meet three times each year to talk, learn and reflect together. We value equal participation and dedicate time to group discussion. Each session has a theme that develops over the year, and we hope attendees leave equipped with renewed motivation and practical ideas for change. Between sessions we share resources and ideas, and encourage connection and community.
Why
Our core belief is that racism exists on an institutional, systemic and personal level, and we acknowledge that it impacts our work in early childhood. We believe it is our role to understand this impact and use this understanding to enact change to make a difference now, and for future generations. We believe in people, and believe in the possibility of change, and we see our role as early childhood educators and Caregivers as being unique in potential for creating new ways of being.