Prioritising Anti-Racism Work Is Like Exercising an Underused Muscle, Expert Says

Why It Matters

Embedding anti‑racism transforms nonprofit delivery, reducing systemic exclusion and aligning charities with donor and regulator expectations for equity. It also safeguards staff wellbeing, improving retention and impact.

Key Takeaways

• Brap CEO urges charities to prioritize anti‑racism as core agenda
• Anti‑racism lens viewed as muscle needing regular exercise
• Equitable service delivery reduces hidden harm to racialised staff
• Asking who benefits simplifies inclusion, not complicates it
• Continuous anti‑racism work prevents systemic exclusion in charities

Pulse Analysis

The nonprofit sector is under increasing pressure to demonstrate genuine diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) outcomes. Funders, regulators and the public now expect charities to move beyond token statements and embed anti‑racism into strategy, governance and program design. Organizations that fail to do so risk reputational damage, donor attrition, and compliance scrutiny, while those that lead on equity can unlock new funding streams and stronger community trust.

Warmington’s muscle analogy captures a practical truth: anti‑racism is not a separate project but a habit that must be exercised daily. By routinely asking who might be left out, charities can identify blind spots before they become systemic barriers. This mindset shift often streamlines decision‑making, because solutions that consider diverse perspectives tend to be more robust and scalable. Moreover, confronting subtle, ongoing harms—like the “dripping tap” of everyday micro‑aggressions—protects staff morale and reduces turnover among racialised employees.

For charities ready to act, the first step is to embed anti‑racism metrics into performance dashboards, such as representation in leadership, equitable service reach, and staff experience surveys. Training should focus on practical tools for inclusive program design rather than abstract theory. Regular audits and transparent reporting create accountability, while partnerships with equity experts can accelerate learning. As the sector embraces these practices, anti‑racism will shift from an underused muscle to a core strength that drives mission impact and organizational resilience.