At HCL, we believe in the power of diversity and the rich histories that contribute to our vibrant community. As part of our ongoing commitment to inclusivity, we are proud to have held a theme day for Windrush, week commencing the 10th of June, honouring the significant impact the Windrush generation had in shaping the foundations of the UK.
To get a personal perspective on this important celebration, we spoke with Shareen, one of our kitchen staff who has been with us for around 15 months.
“What I like about working for HCL and my role are the hours, which work with my parental responsibilities as well as meeting new people and learning various skills that allow me to become more efficient at my job.”
- [Shareen Gamble, Mobile General Assistant]
Shareen’s story is a testament to the balance and opportunities that HCL strives to provide. We wanted to take this opportunity to spotlight Shareen about her connection to the Windrush generation, here’s what she had to share:
A Personal Connection to Windrush
“Personally, being born in the UK but with grandparents from both Barbados and Jamaica, I feel a profound connection to the Windrush generation. On both sides, family members have worked within the NHS and Transport for London, two key significant structures that support and maintain the country and the people living within it.”
Recognising Sacrifices and Acknowledging Progress
The Windrush generation's contributions are woven into the very fabric of the UK's infrastructure and public services. Shareen’s family story reflects a common narrative among many who arrived from the Caribbean between 1948 and 1971, filling crucial roles and helping to rebuild post-war Britain.
“I believe that over the years there has been a change in acknowledging and valuing the sacrifices and challenges we as a people have faced and the inequalities within workplaces, health, and support available. Although there is still a lot of work to be done, we do not need incentive schemes focused on showing equality as tokens of good practices.”
Her insights highlight the progress made and the journey still ahead. Recognising the struggles and triumphs of the Windrush generation helps pave the way for a more inclusive and equitable future.
Moving Beyond Tokenism
While our theme day dedicated to Windrush is a step in the right direction, it is crucial to move beyond token gestures and ensure genuine equality in the workplace.
“For example, I know close family and friends that have been passed over for promotions, even when they have more experience and skills than those being promoted. They have to fight to be treated as equals with their colleagues. Or the companies they work for seem to only have them on their books to comply with some form of policy to show they are diverse. These types of inequalities demotivate and discourage talented people from wanting to be loyal and grow with a business.”
This candid reflection serves as a reminder that while we celebrate diversity, we must also commit to continuous improvement in creating fair and equal opportunities for all employees.
Embracing Diversity at HCL
Our Windrush theme day is more than a celebration; it’s an opportunity to educate, reflect, and inspire change within our organisation. By acknowledging the contributions
and experiences of the Windrush generation, we reinforce our commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion.
As we honour the Windrush generation, we encourage everyone at HCL to engage with these stories, recognise the ongoing challenges, and work together towards a more inclusive future. Let's celebrate the rich tapestry of cultures and histories that make us who we are and strive to create a workplace where everyone feels valued and empowered.
Join us in celebrating Windrush Day, and let’s continue to build a future where every member of our community is valued and respected.