Cause for change: lessons for Black liberation

Abstract

Purpose Using the examples of Grenadian-born Jean Augustine, the first Black Member of Parliament in Canada, and Barbados' Prime Minister Mia Mottley, the piece argues that the ethos of the Emigrant Ambassador—the collective empowerment of Black feminism, liberation, and radicalism—ushered in a new era for change abroad and in Canada, as transnational and international change was driven by Black women from the West Indies. Design/methodology/approach The author used historical research and social science theoretical frameworks to formulate conclusions, lessons learnt and steps forward for current equity, diversity and inclusion (EDI) practitioners. Findings Black women born in the West Indies in the mid-twentieth century were the catalysts for social justice movements in the 2010 and 2020s. Many methods used for social change in the twentieth century are applicable in the 2020s and beyond. Research limitations/implications Research is focused on Canadian and West Indian relations but will have implications for those across the British Commonwealth. Practical implications Practitioners and students of EDI will have a new tool on how to approach and confront anti-Black racism, particularly after May 25, 2020. Social implications This article provides opportunities to support the dwindling efforts of anti-racism to support the lives of Black people across the Black Atlantic. Originality/value This is an original article built on previous scholarship of the author.