TUC Cymru Celebrates Success of Second Black Activist Development Programme
First launched by TUC Cymru in 2023, The Black Activists Development Programme (BADP) is a development programme for Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic workers in Wales, aimed at enhancing leadership, campaigning and organising skills. The programme forms a part of TUC Cymru’s commitment to supporting the Welsh Government’s Anti-racist Wales Action Plan. The programme aims to further increase the representation of people from ethnic minority backgrounds in leadership and senior roles within the trade union movement, workplaces and public life.
In Wales, ethnic minority workers are more likely to be in insecure employment (14.2%) than White British workers (8%). They are also more likely to work in a low paid occupations and are more likely to report experiences of discrimination and bullying in the workplace.
Ethnic minority households are also more likely to be living in poverty (40%) when compared to white households (22%).
The second cohort, which started in April 2024, included 7 women and 1 man from across mid and South Wales.
BADP has focused on topics ranging from trade union and political structures, the role of union reps, campaigning, negotiation, confidence building, communication, equalities and workplace discrimination.
“Black and ethnic minority workers in Wales have been sidelined in their workplaces, in political life and – shamefully, sometimes within the trade union movement. We simply won’t allow that to continue.”
“I’m immensely proud of our Black Activist Development Programme and of everyone who has taken part. This is an initial first step in building a more equitable union movement – and a fairer Wales."
Shavanah Taj, Wales TUC General Secretary
The programme also provided the chance to take an active role in political and union events and direct engagement with Welsh Government ministers.
The participants are finishing their journey with a presentation of certificates in the Senedd.
“I am delighted to host the certificate presentation for the TUC Cymru Black Activists Development Programme. Recent events in the UK have highlighted more than ever that we need a strong Trade Union voice that represents and reflects the communities of ethnic minorities.
I hope that by taking part in the BADP will encourage people from an ethnic minority background to consider contributing to public life, whether that be a life in politics, joining a board, or even community activists. I am looking forward to meeting this year’s cohort.”
Vaughan Gething, MS, Cardiff South and Penarth, sponsoring the event in the Senedd
Join our Black Activist Development Programme
TUC Cymru’s Black Activist Development programme will run from 9 May 2025 with a 2.5-day residential weekend (accommodation and catering will be provided). It will include several face-to-face and online sessions over 11 months.
The programme will give you an opportunity to learn about the trade union movement’s structure, diversity, negotiating, priorities and leadership. It will also give you the confidence and tools to be able to get more involved in your union's organising, influencing and decision-making structures.
- About TUC Cymru: The Trades Union Congress (TUC) exists to make the working world a better place for everyone. We bring together the 5.5 million working people who make up our 48 member unions. We support unions to grow and thrive, and we stand up for everyone who works for a living.
Contact: asingh@tuc.org.uk