It explores their experiences, challenges, and perspectives on achieving fair treatment and equity in the workplace. Despite progress in gender equality—such as increased female representation on boards and mandatory reporting on the gender pay gap—inequities persist. As of 2023, the Republic of Ireland had no Black female professors of African descent and only one of Asian descent. Women remain underrepresented in leadership, earn less than their male counterparts, endure poorer working conditions, and experience higher rates of bullying and harassment. For women from migrant backgrounds, these challenges are compounded by intersectional disadvantages, including placement in gendered, lower-paying roles (Joseph, 2020; ESRI, 2023).
In March 2023, during International Women’s Day, the Institute of Anti-Racism and Black Studies partnered with the Unforgettable Women’s Network to critically examine workplace equity for Black Irish women. This collaboration produced a documentary featuring ten accomplished Black Irish women who shared their experiences navigating Ireland’s labour market, supported by insights from two white ally academics. The documentary became the foundation for the first book in the Equity in the Workplace series, released in March 2024 to mark the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination.
This second book in the series shifts focus to Black Irish women in academia and teaching. It brings together 14 authors, sharing powerful narratives of navigating predominantly white spaces in Irish education. Their stories expose the ongoing inequities and question: why, in 2025, are Irish staff rooms still predominantly white? Why are professors overwhelmingly white?
In addition to these reflections, the book provides practical recommendations to foster equity and inclusion, spark meaningful conversations, and drive systemic change. This collection of stories is a call to action for all of us to reflect, learn, and work toward truly inclusive workplaces.
Get Your Copy
Equity in the Workplace: Stories of Black Irish Women in Academia and the Teaching Profession is available now. For media inquiries, interviews, or book orders, please contact:
Email: tuwnireland@gmail.com Buy
Last modified: August 4, 2025
