Black History Month in the shadow of looming elections
source:
Voice4Change England
originally published: 5 October 2023
"A few weeks ago, I attended a roundtable discussion with a group of charity leaders looking at civil society and the role that charities play in the arena of politics. Charities have for decades been part of the campaigning-lobbying landscape. They have been part of a wave of pressure groups attempting to influence and change society for the better, whilst steering clear of party politics.
At least, that’s the theory" - Kunle Olulode
We at Voice4Change England like many charities are concerned about the state of the country and the issues facing it such as: the cost-of-living crisis, housing, education, immigration, NHS, (in)equality, are just a handful of the political concerns brought to our attention through our members and wider networks.
Put simply; a vibrant civil society is critical to a functioning democracy and an inclusive society.
As we celebrate Black History Month and with elections happening for the mayor’s office in London in May 2024 and a potential General Election in the autumn – if it doesn’t come sooner, politics with a capital P is set to dominate British Society in the weeks and months ahead.
The undecided middle, women, youth, the older voters, the red wallers will be courted by the various political runners. A new government, of some kind is definite, by the end of the 2024!
As election activity slowly simmers towards boiling point, two issues of outstanding interest will need to be thought through in the run up.
Firstly, do Black and minorities need to push for their own electoral voice in the form of a new Manifesto? Discussions are very much underway amongst race equality leaders hosted by NCVO. Secondly, how can we ensure better voter registration and turn out from the communities we work with, who unfortunately have some of the worst rates of voter turnout?
