Reflections on the White Gaze

Working across difference requires constant reflection on power, privilege, and the limitations of our own perspective.

Positioning

As a white British woman who has spent decades working with refugee communities and communities of colour, I have had to continually examine my own assumptions, biases, and the structural advantages I carry into every space.

The Danger of Speaking For

There is always a risk that well-intentioned practitioners end up speaking for rather than alongside the communities they work with. Our platforms, our networks, our ease of navigation through institutions – these can amplify some voices while inadvertently silencing others.

Ongoing Practice

• Asking who benefits from this work – really benefits
• Ensuring communities shape projects from the beginning, not just participate in pre-designed activities
• Being willing to step back, to platform others, to redistribute resources and opportunities
• Accepting criticism and learning from it rather than becoming defensive

Not a Destination

Anti-racist practice is not a destination to arrive at but a continuous journey of learning, unlearning, and accountability. I do not always get it right. But I am committed to staying in the conversation, to being challenged, and to doing the work.