Race and political leadership

The LGA’s weekender events for black, Asian and minority ethnic councillors go from strength to strength 

It is almost 20 years since the LGA convened its first (now annual) leadership weekender event for black, Asian and ethnic minority elected members. 

Ongoing feedback has confirmed that the weekenders – one of the longest-running events in the LGA’s leadership support calendar – have been pivotal to the success of a significant number of participants. 

They have taken their learning into their councils, which has led to varying levels of success in addressing issues of key concern – both in relation to internal and external themes.  

On an individual level, some participants have described the weekenders as being ‘critical’ in enabling them to move into senior political leadership roles within their local authorities, as well as for some becoming MPs. 

Hosted annually by LGA Leadership Adviser Grace Collins MBE, and facilitated by David Weaver, LGA Associate and Senior Partner at DWC Consulting, great store is placed on ensuring that the discourse, leadership dilemmas and agenda address some of the unique issues faced by many black, Asian and minority ethnic (BAME) political leaders. This is enhanced by the involvement of excellent speakers and facilitators, all of whom generate powerful discussions, insights and learning. 

These events have stood the test of time and are as relevant today as they were when we held the first event in 2004. 

Indeed, many contend that the scale of the challenges relating to race and inequalities, alongside growing divisions in communities and society, makes these leadership events even more important now.  

The current context is daunting: we are in a cost-of-living crisis, there are deep budget cuts, and communities are facing unprecedented levels of anxiety, including racialised trauma in some areas of the country. 

It has never been more vital for black, Asian and ethnic minority members to understand how to leverage their personal and political assets to navigate turbulent times. 

At a time of depressingly low levels of voter registration among black and Asian communities because of their decreasing faith in the political system, the role and importance of effective leadership from these communities cannot be overstated. 

It is symbolic that this article is being published during Black History Month. This provides an excellent moment to reflect on the historical context of black, Asian and ethnic minority political leadership and celebrate its contribution over the decades.    

Of course, Black History Month reminds us of the contributions of trailblazers such as Martin Luther King Jr., Nelson Mandela, and Mahatma Gandhi – and, this year, of black women’s achievements, with the theme for 2023 being #SalutingOurSisters.

But it is also the ideal time to acknowledge the often-overlooked contributions of current-day black, Asian and ethnic minority councillors who are making a difference because of their powerful and influential leadership. 

The LGA’s leadership events learn from and build on these experiences. 

There have been many highlights over the years, but one of the consistent plaudits has been on the theme of ‘political branding and developing a strong political identity’.

Having this discussion as black, Asian and ethnic minority members has not only been interesting, but also critical – and, for most, extremely empowering!

Our vision recognises that black, Asian and ethnic minority members, like their white counterparts, require dynamic spaces where they can develop and sharpen their political approaches. 

We are proud that the LGA’s BAME councillors’ weekender events have grown in size, reaching more members from a wider section of the country.  

It has also stayed true to its mission to enrich the discourse on race and leadership development, alongside empowering black, Asian and ethnic minority elected members to realise their powerful leadership potential.  

‘My experiences were reflected and understood’

Having attended the BAME councillors weekend training courses, I would highly recommend them. They are cross-party, which makes them even more relevant, and a great opportunity to explore and exchange views across a wide spectrum.

I hadn’t seen them advertised before, and I was in my 24th year as a councillor when I booked in. It was one of the best things I’ve done.

For the first time, I was able to talk about some of my experiences honestly and openly, because I found that they were reflected and understood across the board. That was a comforting feeling!  

There was much to learn. Being a councillor for 24 years doesn’t mean you know it all, and my motto is ‘every day is a school day’. 

I did learn a huge amount throughout both training weekends, as well as making some fabulous friends. 

It was great to come away with some good contacts, having heard excellent speakers, and feeling rejuvenated, refreshed, with resolve resumed! I’m a more confident councillor as a result of attending these weekends. Wonderful! 

‘Food for thought’

I have found the Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic Councillors’ Weekender events the LGA holds to be amazing. 

I have attended two so far. Each one has provided me with additional skills and knowledge, given me food for thought as I expand my journey through politics and social policy, and has led to very firm friendships being formed with a truly inspiring group of people.

If you have the opportunity to attend an event, I would say take it! 

‘Reassuring and helpful’

I attended and enjoyed the LGA Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic Councillors’ Weekender event last year, and this presented me with a valuable opportunity to enhance my political leadership skills and connect with like-minded councillors. 

The event provided vital insights, concepts, frameworks, and practical hints and tips that have contributed to my development as an authentic and effective leader. 

I gained valuable knowledge, cultivated important connections, and received support in navigating the unique considerations faced by black, Asian and ethnic minority elected members. 

As a new councillor then, this was very reassuring and helpful to me.

• The LGA’s Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic Councillors Weekender events take place on 28-29 October 2023 and 24-25 February 2024 at Warwick Conferences, Coventry. Email [email protected] to book your place