Submitted by colette.bradley... on
Join us as we mark Black History Month 2023 by celebrating the amazing achievements of just a few of the wonderful Black women who are members of Action Together.
Black History Month has been celebrated every year for over thirty years, and is an annual commemoration of history, achievements and contribution of Black people (those with African and Caribbean heritage) in the UK.
The theme for this year's Black History Month is 'Saluting our Sisters' and, throughout the month, we are delighted to be bringing you the personal stories of some fabulous women who are championing their organisations and achieving brilliant things in their communities every day. These women are making outstanding contributions, challenging the systems and paving the way for change. We're here to acknowledge them, salute them and amplify their voices.
Each week we'll be speaking to one of our Action Together Members and sharing their inspirational, passionate, and insightful story.
First up, we spoke with Patrice Johnson from Tameside-based Finding My Way CIC. Her organisation is on a mission to engage with prison leavers, like Patrice herself, by providing a helping hand and believes everyone deserves a second chance. They provide unparalleled resources, real world skills and values to help and support prison leavers of all genders to pursue healthy, fulfilling and productive lives once back in society.
Here's our interview with Patrice...
In response to the 'theme 'Women’s Empowerment' in sixty words or less, can you tell us a bit about yourself?
I'm self-confident, productive, optimistic, a go-getter, a fear-tackler, caring, unafraid to stand up for what one believes in, proud, unbothered by what others say or think, and true to one's self that respects people from all backgrounds, religions, race and gender.
What have you done for your community which you would like people to know about?
It’s a new Community Interest Company. Learn about about our mission and the services we offer: www.findingmywaycic.org
What does Black History Month mean to you?
To uplift and support the achievements of Black and minority women, and to build understanding and awareness of the contributions of Black women to the world.
For black history month this year, the theme is ‘Saluting our Sisters' OR 'Matriarchs of Movements' which aims to highlight the crucial role that black women have played in shaping history, inspiring change, and building communities. Can you tell us about a black woman who has served as inspiration in your life?
Oprah Winfrey is considered a role model to many individuals because of her tough childhood, wonderful charity work, her schools, and the true relationships with her fans. Oprah stands out among many people on her ability to feel others' pain and help those people get through their troubling times.
Viola Davis is a child who grew up in abject poverty, this cause is close to Davis' heart. She has also been active in giving back to Central Falls, Rhode Island, the community where she grew up and to which she contributes her passion for acting.
What change would you like to see in Tameside that would benefit the Black community?
More businesses or community interest companies ran by black women, men or mixed raced.
And finally, what would you say to black people in Greater Manchester to inspire them to make a difference in the community or wider?
There is always light. If only we're brave enough to see it. If only we're brave enough to be it.
Patrice Johnson,
Founder - Finding My Way CIC