Sharing videos of Black bodies being brutalised, or reposting the passionate pleas of friends of colour won't upend the deep structural racism [1] that exists in our society. While the US has gained a widespread reputation of police brutality against Black men and women, that doesn't mean the same thing isn't happening in the UK [2] — the video footage just isn't going as viral. If you're serious about being an anti-racism ally or bringing justice to your community, then supporting Black charities is a good place to start.
Donating to the justice funds of victims like George Floyd [3] and Ahmaud Arbery [4] is only a part of the puzzle. What is equally as important is having those difficult, sometimes awkward, but necessary conversations with friends, families, and colleagues about what happened to these people, and how we can all actively prevent this from recurring in the future. In the UK, there are numerous charities doing life-saving work and pushing for anti-racism initiatives that need your help. Ahead, find eight Black charities to support if you're serious about being an anti-racism ally.
Southall Black Sisters
Southall Black Sisters [6] is a UK charity that aims to protect Black women against domestic abuse.
The Stephen Lawrence Charitable Trust
The Stephen Lawrence Charitable Trust [7] aims to create a fairer society for all through career, community, and social initiatives for young people aged 13-30 in the UK. The organisation honours Black British teenager Stephen Lawrence who was murdered in a racist attack in 1993.
UK Black Pride
UK Black Pride [8] is Europe's largest celebration for African-, Asian-, Middle Eastern-, Latin American-, and Caribbean-heritage LGBTQ+ people.
Charity So White
Charity So White [9] tackles institutional racism within the charity sector.
Imkaan
Imkaan [10] is a UK charity dedicated to ending violence against women and girls of colour.
London Black Women's Project
London Black Women's Project [11] works to end violence against Black women in the UK.
Color of Change
Color of Change [12] is an American charity that aims to reduce mass incarceration by ending cash bail in the United States.
Movement For Black Lives
M4BL [13] is an organisation of over 50 charities that supports leadership development, electoral strategy, and multiracial mass engagement movements for Black communities.