As we celebrate Black History Month, I find myself reflecting on what it truly means to be Black in Britain today.
My family came from the Caribbean to the UK in the 1970s, seeking opportunity and a better life. Like so many of the Windrush generation, they faced racism and exclusion. But they persevered. Fast forward half a century to the UK of today and the opportunities available to their children and grandchildren, would have been unimaginable to them back then. But whilst progress has been made, we still have a long way to go; the door may be available but it is not always open or indeed unlocked.
Historically, Black people in the UK and across the world have not been afforded the same opportunities as others. Even now, in 2025, race rather than our common and shared humanity continues to shape outcomes in ways that limit access to power and influence. Which is why this year’s BHM theme of ‘Standing Firm in Power and Pride’ is so pertinent. To truly have power, we must be free from the fear of expression and be proud of who we are and of our history.
Black History Month gives us the chance to reflect on our path to freedom — often painful and complex — and the great strides we have contributed to society’s enduring struggle against oppression. In doing so, we renew our commitment to building a fairer future.
At SEO London, we exist to open doors that have long been hidden and guarded. We draw strength from history’s rebels, those who fought for justice, education and dignity, and carry their light forward for others to find their way.
Throughout this month, we will be spotlighting four remarkable figures whose courage, creativity and service embody the values at the heart of our mission. From fearless activists and community leaders to writers and healers who redefined their fields, these stories remind us that progress is built by those who stand firm against injustice and act not for themselves, but for human values, freedom and common access to society.
Too many young people still stand outside the gates of power. The wealth gap is widening and opportunity narrowing. And according to a recent report by Bain & Company, at this rate the UK's finance and professional services sector could take more than fifty years to achieve proportional representation of Black employees in senior roles. Among graduates, those from ethnic minority and low-income backgrounds remain far less likely to secure professional opportunities.
That is why our mission still matters now more than ever. Black History Month is not just a time to look back, but a rallying call to act; to re-balance power, widen belonging and prove that excellence is not the privilege of a few, but the birthright of all.
This is what Black History Month means to SEO London. Equal opportunity to access society for all. We honour the past and fight for the future.
- (Honouring the Past, Shaping the Future) Nathalie Richards, CEO of SEO London
#BlackHistoryMonth #BHM
