Saluting our Sisters this Black History Month: Yogeeta Mohur

This Black History Month we are #SalutingOurSisters and marking the incredible achievements of our black female colleagues across EPUT. To kick things off, Yogeeta Mohur, Employee Experience Manager and Chair of EMREN (Ethnic Minority and Race Equality Network) tells us what Black History Month means to her and reflects on the history of her native country, Mauritius.

‘Black History Month is a time of celebration, recognition and sombre reflection. Black people from African and Caribbean communities have been an integral part of British history and society long before 1948. Despite the epidemic of racism and unfairness affecting black people, we continue to break barriers and use our creativity and innovation to influence lives today. The theme Saluting our Sisters plays homage to black women who had contributions ignored, ideas appropriated, and voices silenced.

‘Additionally this month, I want to encourage us all to explore themes such as resilience, self-care, and well-being, underscoring the strength and determination of black women throughout history. It is time to celebrate our accomplishments and encourage future generations to take care of themselves and their communities.

‘Many feel uncomfortable talking about race. There are differing views on correct terminology and the blurred lines of banter. This could come from the peer groups we surround ourselves with or the context in which something is said. Our perception of different topics can be influenced by our environment and conditioning, for example through social media or the people that influence us.

‘However, instead of avoiding these delicate conversations, I think it’s important to embrace them. This way we can challenge misconceptions, foster healthy debate and learn – ultimately breaking down divisions and barriers and understanding one another.

‘I am from Mauritius, often referred to as the paradise island. Many would know it as a holiday or honeymoon destination. Mauritius is an island nation located in the Indian Ocean, about 2,000km off the south east coast of the African continent, east of Madagascar. Despite its geographical location, it is considered part of Africa. The country includes several islands of volcanic origin and it was discovered during the Middle Ages by Arab seafarers. It wasn’t until 1507 that the first Europeans arrived, and they were the Portuguese.

‘Following its discovery, it has passed through Dutch, French and British hands. Finally, in 1968, it proclaimed its independence from the United Kingdom and, in 1992, established itself as the Republic of Mauritius.

‘The passage of different civilisations has given this country great religious diversity. Although Hinduism is the majority religion, practised by nearly half the population, it lives in harmony with Catholicism and Islam.

‘We have a lot of African, Indian, Chinese and European influence in Mauritius, making it really diverse. I am proud of my heritage and proud to be part of the EPUT family which is equally diverse and represents the population that we serve.

‘Although the official language of Mauritius is English, the population mostly speaks French and Kreole, which is a mixture of French and African languages. The Kreol language binds Mauritius’ diverse communities together and links us all, inescapably, to our country’s African origins.

‘The beauty of the island captivated the writer Mark Twain, to whom the quote “Mauritius was made first and then heaven; and heaven was copied after Mauritius” is attributed.

The Mauritian flag features four colours, each with a special meaning: red represents independence, blue the Indian Ocean, yellow the sunshine, and green the vegetation.

‘The music and dance most closely associated with Mauritius, Sega has evolved from its traditional, mostly-improvised roots to a modern-day version often fused with other genres like jazz and reggae. Originating centuries ago among the island’s African slave populations, it quickly spread throughout the Indian Ocean – to Reunion, Rodrigues, the Seychelles, Comoros and Mayotte – and used imaginative new instruments to bring the exhilarating rhythms to life, provoking an unquenchable urge to dance among its listeners.

This Black History Month, let’s all celebrate our diversity. Despite the challenges, we persevere. Despite the adversity, we not only survive but thrive. To all black women – whoever you are, wherever you are, we salute you.