My warmest wishes to all of you celebrating and honouring this Black History Month. A time for us all to reflect on what we as Black people have achieved, and our contributions.

I am Diane Ebanks, the Head of Equality at Public and Commercial Services Union [PCS]. I have worked for PCS for 20 years now and was promoted to this post in May of this year. My time at PCS has given me the opportunity to work in different areas of the union and I have held many roles – manager, negotiator, equality officer and Union Learning organiser, being a few.

Quite honestly, I never expected to be here in this role. There has often been that feeling – you know the one – with that little voice saying, “You? Really?”, the voice of doubt - when you know everyone else should be there, but not sure that it applies to you. Each time I have had to remind myself of my life journey and what it took for me to get to this point. My parents are of the Windrush generation – getting a job, paying my bills and having a family life was their greatest expectation for me. No university experience, no degrees.

I have had to navigate my way through a majority white society and faced those micro-aggressions that many others have. One of the most common themes being “you’re not really black”. I was never sure if that was a question or statement. I know I am a Black woman; both my parents are black – but it seems my lighter skin shade was either confusing or made me less threatening / more acceptable? Being also very tall, trying to avoid the other tag of “angry black woman” when I chose to speak out or hold my space.

PCS has enabled me to discuss these ideas and experiences more freely and has given me the confidence to take my place and own my impact. I walk into a room and am noticed and I use that when necessary. When working on the Union Learning Fund project – I was able to hold the attention of attendees while running workshops.  This work enabled me to reach out to others to provide a learning opportunity that they might not have had; Creative writing to unlock their thought processes and think differently; Menopause awareness sessions and why it is a workplace and trade union issue - I have honestly lost count of the number of women, and men, who attended to be better informed; Mental health, Mindfulness… it unlocked my aim to help and to make a difference for our members.

Each time I was filled with anxiety. I never felt that my skin colour or ethnicity held me back. In fact, I felt I had much in common with many attending and was relatable. More recently I was asked to speak at the London May Day rally in Trafalgar Square – a knee knocking experience; I decided not to step aside and ask someone “better / more experienced”. I fought that voice of doubt and chose to believe in myself.  I stood on the plinth and gave my speech – and was met with an amazing reception from the crowd. Sharing a stage occupied by others more experienced and well-known in public speaking and I made an impact.

We all have something to offer – finding what that is can often be difficult. Add race and ethnicity and cultural differences into the mix and finding your place can be more of a challenge. Having support of good people has often helped. But questioning my own doubt and fears has been important – learning about myself and my strengths, what drives me and what doesn’t.

Applying for the role of Head of Equality I was incredibly anxious – application form, presentation, and a panel interview – I was sure others would get the post ahead of me. I was delighted and overwhelmed to get the call offering me the post. I know that I have much to do in my new role – and I believe that I can make a difference, and most importantly, I want to. I am still learning, still growing. I work with some wonderful talented and inspiring people. I’ve learned from many and will continue to learn from others.

I may not command the space in the same way as others, but I’ve learned – no-one else can hold that space in the same way as me! Being Black doesn’t define who I am or limit what I can achieve, and it shouldn’t for anyone else. Whatever you do this Black History Month – think about what you bring to others – and yourself. Trust your instincts and take the steps you want. Keep learning, keep growing. Own your space.