Black and Asian Ethnic Minority
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Updates from Unite's BAEM sector | See excerpts from a selection of the statements and solidarity messages from Unite's BAEM sector - check out the full selection of updates
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Statement of solidarity with the people of Nepal - September 2026
On behalf of the National Black and Asian Ethnic Minority Committee (NBAEM), we extend our deepest thoughts, solidarity and heartfelt regards to the people of Nepal, and particularly to the families and communities affected during this incredibly difficult time.
Our thoughts are with the families and communities of Nepal facing loss, displacement and uncertainty, as well as with our Nepalese members, colleagues and their families who may be worried about loved ones at home. We stand with you all.
We recognise and commend the efforts of the emergency services, humanitarian organisations, volunteers and ordinary people working tirelessly to help and support those in need. In moments of crisis, it is often the courage, compassion and solidarity of people standing together that provides hope when it is needed most.
To our Nepalese comrades, colleagues and communities here in the UK, and to those with loved ones in Nepal, please know that you are very much in our thoughts.
At this difficult time, let us come together in compassion and solidarity with the people and families of Nepal, keeping them firmly in our thoughts.
Our message is simple: Nepal, you are not alone. At this time of sadness, loss and uncertainty, we stand alongside the people of Nepal in solidarity and compassion. We hold in our thoughts all those whose lives have been affected and send our heartfelt wishes for strength, comfort and hope to the families and communities facing the difficult days ahead.
In solidarity, the chair of The National Black and Asian Ethnic Minorites Committee.
Unite Equalities statement on the Death of Dr Jason Arday - August 2026
Unite the union is deeply saddened by the death of Dr Jason Arday. We send our heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, loved ones, colleagues, and students, all of whom are grieving the loss of a remarkable individual whose contribution to education and social justice touched many lives.
Currently, our foremost thoughts are with those closest to Jason. No family should have to endure such a profound loss in the full glare of public attention. We respectfully ask that his family and loved ones be given the privacy, space and compassion they need to grieve and remember him in peace.
Dr Arday's achievements inspired countless people, particularly those from communities that continue to face barriers and discrimination. His life and work stood as a powerful reminder of the importance of equality, opportunity and inclusion.
Unite shares the concerns expressed across the trade union movement regarding reports of the harassment, racism and intense public scrutiny that Dr Arday experienced. Everyone is entitled to dignity, fairness and due process, regardless of the circumstances or allegations they face.
As an anti-racist union, Unite remains steadfast in challenging racism in all its forms and in defending the right of Black workers and other underrepresented groups to participate fully in public and professional life without fear of discrimination, vilification, or disproportionate targeting. We support a free and independent press, but with that freedom comes a responsibility to report with accuracy, fairness and humanity, recognising the very real impact that sustained public scrutiny can have on an individual’s dignity, privacy and wellbeing.
We stand in solidarity with all those mourning Jason's loss and hope that this tragedy encourages reflection on how we treat one another in public life, while renewing our commitment to equality, respect and compassion for all.
"This Race Equality Week, Unite the union reaffirms its commitment to celebrating heritage, amplifying voices, and creating workplaces where everyone belongs."
Unite Equalities February 2026
Black & Asian Ethnic Minorities in Unite
Race equality is a key priority in the workplace and beyond. Unite campaigns for fair treatment for all and recognises the responsibility of everyone in the union to challenge racism in the workplace, the union and our society.
BAEM workers face higher levels of unemployment and racism at work and Unite Race Forward Campaign action plans are targeted at union reps to support them in tackling racism in the workplace.
We must all work together to promote race equality and ensure that BAEM members continue to play a key role in our union and to increase their involvement at every level.
By joining Unite you too can get involved in achieving this aim.
Contact us
Unite National Contacts
128 Theobald’s Road, Holborn, London WC1X 8TN
Alison Spencer-Scragg, Director of Equalities, Tel: 020 7611 2635
Sharon Harding, Unite National Officer for Equalities
BAEM and Disabled Members, Tel: 020 7611 2643
Regional Women's & Equalities Officers
East Midlands – Neelam Verma, 0116 253 2020
Ireland - Taryn Trainor, Belfast 028 90 029443 x 30031
London & Eastern – Aisha Malik-Smith 0208 800 4281
North East Yorkshire & Humberside - Heather Blakey (acting) 0113 236 4830
North West - Sharon Hutchinson, 0161 669 8701
Scotland - Lorna Glen, 0141 404 5424
South East - Kathy Walters 01622 234101
South West - RWEO, 0117 923 0555
Wales – Joanne Galazka, 02920 394521
West Midlands - RWEO, 0121 553 6051
Black history month
Black History Month aims to celebrate the achievements and contributions of black people not only in the UK, but across the globe. During the month of October there are a series of events with schools and universities, cultural institutions, private companies and the public sector all coming together to celebrate the contributions of black people to British and wider society.
Check out planned Unite Equalities' regional events to mark black history month
Unite BAEM statement
National BAEM Committee chair and EC rep statement on fascist riots and anti-fascist protesters- August 2024 (Word)
We stand together for peace and unity in our communities. We steadfastly reject the violence, division and racism we have seen this week as some seek to use the tragic event in Southport to spread hate based on mistruths and false information. Read the full statement above.
Black Lives Matter
It is time for justice because #BlackLivesMatter ➡️ We must not let anything or anyone distract us from the worthy and righteous call for justice. Find out more on Unite and #BlackLivesMatter
Unite salutes the Windrush pioneers
On Sunday 22 June, we commemorate the 77th anniversary, of the arrival of The Empire Windrush. The first ship to arrive in Tilbury Docks after the Second World War, a pivotal moment in British history ... more details and join the campaign for justice for those affected by the Windrush scandal. Join the campaign, find out more on Windrush Day.
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Unite the union – Celebrating Black History Month
To all our Black, Asian, and Ethnic Minority members, activists, and comrades—past and present - who have shaped our workplaces, communities, and society: 
We see you. We honour you. We thank you.
Your contributions continue to inspire progress, unity, and justice. For Black History month, and every month, we send our deepest solidarity and appreciation.
We are stronger together. We hope you enjoyed Black History Month—celebrated, reflected, and were uplifted.