Equity, Diversity and Inclusion
We are committed to being a truly inclusive, anti-racist organisation with a robust, progressive and proactive Equity, Diversity and Inclusion programme
Why Black History Month matters
Jerome Williams, our Director of Equity, Diversity and Inclusion, on Black History Month and the continuing need for courage, persistence and solidarity.
- Author: Jerome Williams, Director of Equity, Diversity and Inclusion
- Published: 1 October 2025
For me, Black History Month has never just been about dates in the diary. It’s always been a moment to stop and reflect, to celebrate the creativity, resilience and brilliance of Black communities, and to acknowledge the inequalities that are still with us.
On a personal level, it reminds me to stand tall in my own values: to be proud of heritage, to recognise the struggles that came before, and to keep pushing for a fairer future.
I came to City Bridge Foundation as its Director of Equity, Diversity and Inclusion with the brief to develop the charity’s EDI Strategy. It’s both a big challenge and a great opportunity. The vision behind that strategy is going to be based on creating stronger connections and fairer futures across London.
I want us to be recognised as a world-class, equity-led institution that uses its resources, influence and voice to drive real systemic change. For me, equity and inclusion can’t be side projects; they must run through everything we do, and I’m fully committed to seeing that happen.
Standing Firm in Power and Pride
This year’s Black History Month theme, Standing Firm in Power and Pride, is about reflection but also about action. It asks us not only to celebrate the legacies of the past but also to stand beside those who are shaping change today. That’s why I’m proud that City Bridge Foundation is already supporting organisations across London that are already doing brilliant work with and for our communities.
Since arriving here, I’ve been so impressed by the commitment to EDI shown by City Bridge Foundation’s leaders and by colleagues across the organisation. I feel as though I’m starting my work from strong foundations, which makes me excited about what we can achieve together.
Black History Month matters because progress doesn’t just happen. It comes from courage, persistence and solidarity. It’s a challenge to each of us, and to institutions like ours, to live our values and play our part in making London a place where every community can thrive.
Jerome Williams, Director of Equity, Diversity and Inclusion