As an ethnic minority NHS staff member, I’ve grown accustomed to the subtle, and sometimes overt, ways in which we are treated differently. But nothing quite prepared me for the unique challenges I’d face when I became a union representative. The vulnerability I already felt as an ethnic minority was magnified in my role as a union rep. Suddenly, I found myself navigating a new level of discrimination, intimidation, and disrespect.

It’s a strange position to be in, representing colleagues while constantly facing barriers simply because of who I am. The methods of opposition have ranged from dismissive attitudes to direct intimidation, all aimed at silencing my voice and diminishing my influence. I’ve been ignored in meetings, had my concerns brushed aside, and been subjected to tones of disrespect that go far beyond mere professional disagreements.

What strikes me most is the insidiousness of the treatment. Often, it’s not the overt racism or hostility that is the hardest to bear - it’s the underhanded, passive-aggressive tactics that eat away at your confidence and question your right to stand up for yourself and others. Whether it’s being left out of important conversations or having my contributions devalued, the message is clear: “You don’t belong here.”

Yet, despite the adversity, I refuse to be silenced. I’ve come to realise that the very act of standing my ground, of continuing to speak up and represent my colleagues, is a form of resistance against a system that often seems stacked against people like me.

The intimidation tactics I face are designed to make me retreat, to make me question my own worth, and to suppress my advocacy. But every time I push back, I not only reclaim my voice but also create space for others who may feel similarly marginalised.

I am incredibly grateful to the RCN officer who has consistently stood by me, reminding me that the fight against discrimination - whether conscious or unconscious, direct or indirect - cannot be fought alone. Their unwavering support has been a lifeline. They have challenged on my behalf, confronted the biases that often go unchecked, and provided me with the encouragement I need to stay resolute. This allyship is not just an act of solidarity; it’s a powerful example of how we must all stand against inequity, no matter how entrenched it may be.

The challenges I face as a union rep are just one facet of a much larger issue within the NHS and beyond. Ethnic minority staff are often positioned at the margins, their voices diluted or outright ignored.

For me, being a union rep is not just about securing better working conditions - it’s about challenging a culture that too often seeks to silence those who are already vulnerable.

I won’t pretend that this journey is easy. There are days when the weight of being treated differently feels crushing. But I have learned that the discomfort of being ignored or disrespected is nothing compared to the cost of silence. My determination to continue speaking out, despite the opposition, is fuelled by the knowledge that every time I stand tall, I chip away at the very structures that try to diminish us.

I will continue to fight, not just for myself but for every worker who has ever felt marginalised, intimidated, or unheard. And in doing so, I hope to inspire others to raise their voices, too, knowing that change is only possible when we refuse to be silenced. Becoming a rep is one of the most rewarding aspects of my nursing career, it has given me a platform to speak out and I hope to inspire others to consider taking on a rep role.

The struggle for equality and respect is far from over, but I am more determined than ever to ensure that our voices—our experiences—are not just heard but respected. Together, we will continue to rise above discrimination.