This column is by a former real estate professional who suffered racial discrimination throughout his time in the industry. He has shared his experiences after witnessing the racist attacks aimed at English football players after this week’s Euro 2020 defeat, including a now-infamous tweet allegedly sent by an employee of a major real estate agency
I am ashamed that it has taken the abuse faced by our brave, Black footballers to speak up. Real estate is not a safe space for people of colour. I am not surprised that a Savills employee is being investigated for his post-match comments. Sadly, his alleged comments are tame in comparison to other stories I have heard. The post-match abuse really sticks with me; the repeated use of the “n” word and tired old clichés such as “return home” are common phrases aimed at dehumanising people of colour.
During my career, I have been subjected to racial slurs at numerous organisations. I have been asked where I am from (despite my thick Yorkshire accent), been called a “monkey” and heard tired clichés about the size of my genitals. I have listened to numerous stereotypes about Nigerian fraudsters and Jamaican cannabis lovers. I have even heard senior colleagues discussing how the sentencing of George Floyd’s murderer was unfortunate and that they felt sorry for Derek Chauvin. Sadly, some of these perpetrators are responsible for executing the numerous diversity initiatives launched last summer.
One notable incident stands out in my career. I remember being racially abused at work. The room was full of senior real estate professionals who pretended that they had not heard the abuse. It was astonishing to see the level of protection afforded to individuals who had just racially abused a colleague. I knew there was no point in raising a complaint as it was clear which side the firm would take. This moment led me to exit the real estate industry.
When we see discrimination, we must openly question how this has arisen and how can we ensure that this never happens again. Enough of the media-friendly images of token diversity
The impact of this abuse and associated events are immeasurable. I knew when those three young Black players missed their penalties that there would be heightened levels of racial abuse. Sadly, I imagine that pressure was multiplied in their subconscious thoughts. I do wonder what it will take for society and this industry to improve.
I have spoken to so many underrepresented groups within real estate – LGBTQ+, women and BAME – and there are so many stories of senior executives within real estate gaslighting victims of racial and sexual abuse.
Real estate as an industry must mature. There are too many who assist, cover and participate in discrimination. In hindsight, it appears odd that despite many a sordid story at MIPIM and the Presidents’ Club, the most significant responses to both were a few press releases and the holding of quieter soirées to draw less attention. This is not the fix.
There must be greater emphasis on diversity in all its forms. Real estate has been talking about diversity for a long time but how many PE houses have female/BAME leadership? How many agencies have female/BAME leadership? How many real estate insurers have female/BAME leadership?
When we see discrimination, we must openly question how this has arisen and how can we ensure that this never happens again. Enough of the media-friendly images of token diversity.
We must seek to do better to address the imbalances within our society. I have fortunately sought new pastures by changing industry, but I hope that real estate changes and utilises the power of diversity to drive societal change. The industry must admit that when it comes to diversity, it needs help.
My strongest advice is to engage in difficult conversations, listen to your employees and create environments where no form of discrimination is accepted.
