Celebrating Black History Month at the Senedd

Midwifery students and staff from Cardiff University’s School of Healthcare Sciences recently attended the Trade Union Congress (TUC) Cymru Black History Month event at the Senedd’s Pierhead Building.

They joined trade unionists, policymakers and activists to reflect on the role of unions in challenging racism and advancing equality in the workplace. The event highlighted the importance of anti-racism in workplaces and the community, offering students a unique opportunity to engage with national conversations on equity and social justice.

The event, co-hosted by TUC Cymru and the Welsh Government, carried the theme “Celebrating our past and protecting our future”. Speakers included Jane Hutt MS, Cabinet Secretary for Social Justice, Trefnydd and Chief Whip; Jackie Short of the GMB Union’s Race Achievement Scholarship Programme (GRASP); Jamie Morris of the Royal College of Midwives and TUC Cymru General Secretary Shavanah Taj.

Morris shared her personal journey into midwifery, describing how her own experiences as a Black pregnant woman motivated her to ensure that “no woman would ever go through what she did.” She emphasised the stark findings of the MBRRACE report, which shows that Black women are still two to three times more likely to die during pregnancy and childbirth than white women. Her reflections underscored the urgent need for action in maternity care and across the NHS to support the reduction of direct and indirect health inequalities.

Two Midwifery students attended and later reflected on the impact of the event. One student described the day as “an inspiring event to attend,” noting how the speakers’ insights were “thought-provoking and apt in the midst of the increasing political and social tension across the globe.” Another student highlighted the sense of solidarity in the room:

Both students emphasised how the event deepened their understanding of anti-racism and strengthened their commitment to creating inclusive spaces in their future midwifery careers.

Nerys Kirtley, RCM Fellow and Midwifery Lecturer and Learning in Practice Lead at Cardiff University’s School of Healthcare Sciences, noted that attending such events provides students with valuable opportunities to engage with national anti-racism policy, trade union activism and lived experiences of discrimination. These experiences complement academic study by encouraging students to reflect on their professional responsibilities in tackling inequality.

By participating in events like this, our students gain first-hand insight into how healthcare professionals, unions and policymakers are working together to build more inclusive workplaces and communities.

For the School of Healthcare Sciences, the event was both a celebration of Black History Month and a reminder of the vital role our students and future healthcare leaders play in advancing equity and social justice.