Black Inclusion Week 2025 is just around the corner – taking place 12–18 May with the powerful theme: Every Voice, Standing United.
And if you want to do more than tick a box this year, now is the time to get planning.
The problem with last-minute inclusion
Performative inclusion often comes from poor planning. A few weeks out, someone scrambles to pull together a panel or post a black square on social media. But meaningful inclusion takes time, intention, and – most importantly – collaboration.
Here’s how to make this year’s Black inclusion week count
- Set your intention early
Before you plan any activity, be clear on your “why.”
- What message are you trying to communicate?
- How does this connect to your wider equity strategy?
- What do you want your people to learn or reflect on?
Don’t chase impact for appearance’s sake – focus on what will resonate meaningfully with your teams.
2. Collaborate with Black colleagues (don’t just delegate)
Invite Black employees to co-create the week’s activity – but don’t expect them to do all the labour. Offer budget, time, and support. Better still, pay external Black speakers or facilitators who bring expertise and lived experience.
3. Make it more than a moment
Black Inclusion Week should be a catalyst – not a standalone gesture. Plan follow-up sessions, share internal reports, or launch a longer-term initiative linked to what you explored that week.
One week can’t fix systemic inequity – but it can shift mindset and spark action.
4. Use this link to get ahead
Want help? The Mahogany team is already supporting organisations with ideas, resources, and expert guidance.
Register for updates and inspiration here.
Black Inclusion Week isn’t a PR opportunity – it’s a chance to build a more equitable, inclusive workplace.
So this year, don’t leave it to the last minute. Show your people – and the wider community – that you’re serious about change.
Start early. Do it well. Make it count.
