In preparation for the new undergraduate academic year, September 2023, coinciding with LCF‘s Stratford campus and new home, situated in the Olympic Park. I plan to include the Shades of Noir, landing page, introducing a new level of Inclusivity and diversity to our new students, at level four, during my introductory sessions.
Within my professional teaching practice, I will introduce the shades of Noir page, by navigating through its key areas, which include artefacts, creatives, education, and journals. My aim will be to singularly and openly encourage conversation that will empower our students to have a voice. Having read the article ‘We can’t keep supporting billionaires just because they are black.’ I chose to select the image for this piece, for it speaks to me directly. For if we are to begin levelling the playing field, as a person of colour, I must be ready to be analytical and critical, with respect and appreciation of those around me, and those who influence our spheres, with honesty.
I must learn to be braver in having the ability to promote debate and discussion, by planning and preparing sessions, which interact with our students and staff, developing spaces to have safe and open dialogue, where participation enables conversation which immerses in active progressive debate, that is nurtured in a setting of positive open dialogue.
I thank God for shades of Noir. Several years ago, myself and colleagues from BA (Hons) Bespoke Tailoring were invited to a session hosted by SoN on inclusivity and diversity. I felt like I was in a white room, I was the one who was very vocal in conversation to the topic of discussion, fast forward to today, I feel and hope that my voice is stronger and that my platform has increased in capacity to have greater influence for good. I hope that my voice will be heard, and my presence and my visible presence will make a difference to our students of colour.
Image:
https://shadesofnoir.org.uk/we-cant-keep-supporting-billionaires-just-because-theyre-black/