Reisha Pitrola: “Black History Month Is for Everyone, Not Just Those Who Identify as Black”

This month marks Black History Month here in the UK and we spoke to Reisha Pitrola, Senior Associate at GLG, about what the month means to her and how everyone can show up in their allyship to the Black community.

Hi Reisha – thanks for chatting to us! Can you share a little about yourself?

My name is Reisha Pitrola and I’m a Senior Asscoiate on the Life Sciences Integrated Insights team at GLG. My role is to support large pharmaceutical clients with their market research needs, which could consist of anything from conducting in-depth interviews with senior healthcare professionals to conducting large surveys of patients.

This month marks Black History Month here in the UK – what does this month mean to you?

In its simplest form, Black History Month is a celebration of Black culture, achievements, and societal contributions, as well as a time to reflect and acknowledge that work for racial equality still needs to be done.

"As a Black cisgender woman, to me, allyship to the Black LGBTQ+ community is the act of being a supporter, listener, and cheerleader."

Do you have any suggestions for marking Black History Month in the workplace?

Black History Month is for everyone, not just those who identify as Black. It’s a time to enjoy, converse, and learn about Black History and how it has and continues to influence the world we live in. I would encourage organisations to acknowledge and highlight Black history, hold genuine safe spaces for people to share and appreciate each other’s lived experiences, commit to Diversity & Inclusion initiatives, and continue to show support to the Black community all year round!

Well said! How can everyone show up for Black History Month?

They simply need to show up – be willing to actively listen, learn, have difficult conversations, appreciate, and empathise with all aspects of Black history and culture. Also, continue to uplift Black voices, support Black-led initiatives, and understand the importance of Black History Month in all its triumph.

What does allyship to the Black LGBTQ+ community mean to you?

As a Black cisgender woman, to me, allyship to the Black LGBTQ+ community is the act of being a supporter, listener, and cheerleader. In particular, LGBTQ+ people who identify as Black may face additional pressure and discrimination not experienced by their peers. So, anything I can do to continuously show up, learn, and hold a safe space for people within this community is a must!

Reisha Pitrola, Senior Associate at GLG

How will your workplace be taking part in Black History Month?

This year, the theme for UK Black History Month is ‘Saluting our Sisters’, which will recognise the contributions and achievements of Black women. At GLG, we will publish an article internally with responses from London-based senior leaders on the importance of UK Black History Month and Black UK role models who inspire them. In addition, we will host multiple internal events to celebrate Black culture, including the UK Black film scene and African and Caribbean cuisine.

Lastly, do you have any recommendations for learning more about Black history?

I love to read and explore different versions of the lived Black experience that are both familiar and less familiar to me. A few of my favourite books include ‘Natives: Race and Class in the Ruins of Empire’, by Akala; ‘Brit(ish)’, by Afua Hirsch; ‘Warriors Don’t Cry’, by Melba Pattillo Beals; ‘Mixed/Other’, by Natalie Morris; and ‘Why I’m No Longer Talking to White People About Race’, by Reni Eddo-Lodge.