68 years after the first female MP was elected, Diane Abbott became the UK’s first woman of colour MP. Today Women of colour make up 5.7% of the total number of MPs and are particularly underrepresented in local politics. Recent research by the Runnymede Trust and Fawcett reveals 75% of women of colour have experienced racism at work – Parliament and politics in general is no different. There are structural barriers standing between women of colour and their opportunities and this is no less true for our politicians. We also know that women MPs of colour are more likely to receive abuse and online harassment.
Working with our partners, such as Muslim Women’s Network UK, Centenary Action aims to highlight and platform the voices and experiences of women of colour in politics. We want to see women of colour properly represented at all levels of elected office and able to thrive in an inclusive culture which values their skills and expertise.
Increasing the participation of women of colour in politics
We were delighted to be able to work together with Muslim Women's Network UK, Elect Her and 5050 Parliament to bring together a group of inspirational women from across the...
‘Stand up, speak up and make your mark’ Why we need more voices from women of colour in our public life
Getting more women into parliament, and public life in general, is our key mission. But we also want to be sure that women in all their diversity are properly represented. We...
A hand that gives: representation of women of colour in politics
In this blog Hannah Francis, Unbound Trainee at the Runnymede Trust, looks at the history of political representation for women of colour and considers what still needs to change.