25 Sep 2024

‘The Importance of Male Allyship’ – Mark Freed speaks at BWHR Annual Conference

Mark Freed is proud to have delivered a speech at the Black Women in HR (BWHR) Annual Conference.

Mark shared key insights such as:

  • How male allies can recognise and use their privilege for positive change.
  • The power of active advocacy—speaking up and amplifying women’s voices.
  • Ways to break stereotypes and foster balanced leadership.
  • The ongoing commitment to equality that true allyship requires.

Thoughts from Mark Freed:

As I entered the room at the Black Women In HR – BWHR conference, I reminded myself that the feeling of being the only one or a minority in the room—an unfamiliar experience for me—is an everyday reality for many of the delegates present. I had a few reasons for attending. First, I wanted to show support for the work being done to elevate Black women in HR. I also wanted to learn, expand my perspective, and challenge my own thinking. On day one, I presented virtually on engaging white men in DEI. That was easy—I was in the comfort of my office, speaking to my screen.

But day two was different. I was there in person, in the audience, surrounded by an overwhelmingly Black group of professionals. I don’t usually sit in the audience at conferences (short attention span, uncomfortable seating—you know the drill), but I went to be part of something important. What I received in return was far more powerful than I expected. The speakers delivered heartfelt, authoritative presentations, unafraid to show vulnerability. The appalling statistics shared made me reflect deeply on the realities faced by underrepresented groups.

More than anything, I was reminded of the relative advantage I carry as a white man, and I left with clear ideas on how we can integrate ethnicity into our gender-focused work at Men for Inclusion.

Helping one talented Black person succeed in the current culture isn’t progress—helping talented people is a basic expectation of leadership. Real progress comes from changing the culture so that everyone can succeed equally. To the few allies in the room, most of whom were senior white men: you have the power to change this culture. If not you, then who? If not now, then when? Let’s also remember that changing the culture benefits us all—an inclusive workplace leads to better outcomes for everyone. And an inclusive society frees us from outdated male stereotypes that limit our own freedoms, choices, and opportunities.

A huge thank you to Adese O. and Jadesola Goodluck, SPHRi for creating such a powerful event and a space for meaningful conversations. Thank you also Harvey Francis Frank Douglas and Fiona Daniel for your inspiring and empowering presentations. And to the other allies in the room for being there Marcus Ryder, Andrew Wilkinson, Daniel R. and Mark Ewen

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