Lived Experience vs Professional Expertise

A common mistake organisations can make when moving towards Anti Racism is over-relying on Black employees to drive anti-racism initiatives. Shereen points out that lived experience does not automatically equate to professional expertise in systemic racism, organisational behaviour, or strategic planning. The video stresses that while these employees can offer valuable insights, it's unfair and ineffective to place the entire responsibility for developing and implementing anti-racism strategies on them. This approach can lead to exploitation, as these employees are often not compensated or recognized for their additional labour. Shereen advocates for a more balanced approach where organisations provide proper support and resources, ensuring that those tasked with this work have the necessary expertise and are not just relied upon because of their racial identity. This helps prevent the additional burden on employees who are already navigating personal experiences of racism.

Who's It For?

This video is essential for people who aim to effectively address racism in the workplace. It clarifies the distinction between lived experience and professional expertise in handling systemic racism, stressing the importance of not overburdening Black employees with change initiatives solely based on their race.