My Story

Biography: Reflections on Failing EDI and Experiences of Workplace Racism in Wales

Having lived and worked in Wales for several years, my journey through the realm of Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) has been both enlightening and challenging. When I first joined my organisation, I was inspired by its EDI statements and policies. It seemed like a workplace that genuinely valued diversity and inclusion. However, over time, I began to notice a troubling disconnect between the promises on paper and the reality in practice.

I encountered both subtle and overt racism—ranging from offhand comments to being excluded from discussions and having my contributions dismissed. These experiences were not only discouraging but also deeply unsettling. When I raised my concerns, the responses were often dismissive, leaving me no choice but to file a formal complaint. That process exposed significant systemic issues, including a lack of empathy, accountability, and genuine commitment to change. The experience took a heavy toll on both my confidence and overall well-being.

This journey made it clear to me that the organisation’s approach to EDI was fundamentally flawed. Tokenistic gestures, ineffective training, and poorly managed complaints processes highlighted the need for significant improvement. Meaningful change requires more than policies—it demands honest conversations, empowerment for those raising concerns, accountability, deep and continuous education, and regular evaluations of EDI practices. Only then can we move closer to building truly inclusive environments.