Applications open for the 2027 Black Activist Programme
Over 60 Black trade unionists have completed the programme since it began in 2024, coming from unions and workplaces across our region. Firefighters, health workers, cleaners, journalists, postal workers, educators, tech workers, dockers, train drivers, civil servants and more have all taken part.
The programme is designed to help Black members develop the knowledge, skills and networks needed to become active and influential voices within the trade union movement. It also aims to strengthen Black representation in trade union structures and support a new generation of activists to shape the movement's future.
Participants have gone on to take up branch leadership roles, sit on regional and national union bodies, become delegates to TUC LESE Regional Council and Executive Committee, and secure full-time union officer positions. Two were elected as local councillors earlier this year. While many factors contribute to these achievements, they point to the programme's role in helping activists develop the confidence and networks needed to step into leadership positions.
Feedback consistently points to the programme helping Black activists build confidence, strengthen organising skills and develop a deeper understanding of how to make change within their unions. Participants have reported taking on new union roles, standing for elected positions, mentoring colleagues and becoming more active in campaigns and workplace organising.
A transformative experience that provided deep insights into union structures, the importance of self-organisation, and strategies for increasing Black representation in the trade union movement. The programme empowered me to navigate barriers and lead initiatives that will contribute to lasting change within my union.
The programme runs over six months and includes workshops, opportunities to learn from experienced trade unionists, a visit to Parliament and to TUC Congress. Just as importantly, it creates lasting connections between Black activists across unions, sectors and workplaces. As applications open for 2027, we hope to support another cohort of Black trade unionists to develop their skills, build their confidence and play a leading role in our movement.
Applications for the TUC LESE Black Activist Programme 2027 open on 7 October and close at 23:59 on 1 December. If you're a Black trade union member looking to develop your skills, expand your network and play a greater role in the movement, we encourage you to apply.
Apply now
*TUC Definition of Black
Black’ – with a capital B– is used to indicate people with a shared history. ‘Black’ is used in a broad political and inclusive sense to describe people in the UK who have suffered from colonialism and enslavement in the past and continue to experience racism and diminished opportunities in today’s society.
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