Vocal Freedom Episode 31 -Joanna Abeyie, MBE

Welcome to this special episode of the Vocal Freedom Podcast.

My guest this week is multi-award winning social impact entrepreneur, champion of diversity, inclusion and equality Joanna Abeyie, MBE.  I asked Joanna onto the Vocal Freedom Podcast after recently hearing her give an inspiring talk concerning anti-racism for the Musicians Union.    I find voices like Joanna's so inspiring and  important to help bring about the change we need in this world.   

Joanna is the founder & creator of Blue Moon click here to visit her website and learn how she can help you and your workplace.  Their consultancy work champions culture transformation to ensure all voices are being heard and treated fairly in the workplace as well as other services. 

Tune in and ask yourself how you feel about speaking about race.  Does it make you feel too uncomfortable?  Do you understand the concept of white privilege?  Would you say you 'don't see colour?'  Do you understand why that phrase can be taken offensively?  

It can really help us grow to hold a mirror up to ourselves and ask these difficult questions about our beliefs and behaviours.  How we feel about race, diversity and inclusion is reflected in how we contribute to bringing about actual change against systemic racism in the arts and well... world!

Doing nothing, will help no-one. 
Staying silent will not change a thing. 

Have you addressed any of these issues head on? Would you like to share your story with me?  Join in the conversation and use your voice to make a difference.  

References made through this episode include some great further reading on this topic, links here:

Natives by Akala

Minor Feelings by Cathy Park Hong

Why are all the black kids sitting together in the cafeteria? by Beverly Danial Tatum, PhD

Me & White Supremacy by Layla Saad

Why I'm no longer talking to white people about race by Reni Eddo-Lodge

How to be an Anti-racist by Ibram Kendi

Untamed by Glennon Doyle

Songbird by Eva Cassidy

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Wishing you all a happy and healthy Christmas Season! Stay well and be kind xx