Article: After ‘BAME’: getting terminology right when talking about race Written by Jermaine Haughton Wednesday 05 May 2021 Share Share to LinkedIn Share to Facebook Share via email Conscientious managers will want to use the appropriate terminology when talking about race and ethnicity in the workplace The recent government-commissioned report from the Commission on Race and Ethnic Disparities recommended that the term ‘BAME’ should not be used by organisations and public bodies. The acronym stands for ‘Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic’ and has become commonly used in recent years but which has the effect of categorising, even marginalising, Black and Asian people, and those from other ethnic minorities, into one group. So how can individual managers get the terminology right when talking about race in the workplace? After all, having empathetic conversations with colleagues about race, no matter how uncomfortable, is a key part of developing an anti-racist organisation. Want to learn more about getting terminology right when talking about race? Login or register below for Free Instant Access We’re carrying out essential system maintenance between 12 - 19 January 2026. During this time, some CMI services will be temporarily unavailable, including new friend registrations. Please check back from 19th January - we look forward to welcoming you! Find out more Login If you are already registered as a CMI Friend, Subscriber or Member, just login to view this article. Confirm your registration Login below to confirm your details and access this article. Log in Featured in the Better Managers Roadmap Your practical guide to successfully navigating the return to the workplace. View the Better Managers Roadmap Don’t miss out - get notified of new content Sign-up to become a Friend of CMI to recieve our free newsletter for a regular round-up of our latest insight and guidance. CMI members always see more. For the widest selection of content, including CPD tools and multimedia resources, check out how to get involved with CMI membership. Newsletter More ways to get involved Article Our extensive range of articles are designed to keep you in the loop with all the latest management and leadership best practice, research and news. Members See More CMI Members have access to thousands of online learning and CPD resources. Learn more about our membership benefits Join The Community CMI offers a variety of flexible membership solutions, tailored to your needs. Find out more and get involved in the CMI community today.
