As we come together this October to celebrate Black History Month, it is time to honour the achievements and contributions of our BAME communities across Scotland.

And reflect on the progress we have made in equality and representation while acknowledging that there is much more to do.

If we are going to build a truly inclusive society in which different communities can live and work together - with shared hopes and aspirations and common principles and values, contributing to a better life for all.

It is important to understand each other better.

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Black History Month provides an important opportunity to highlight the often-overlooked stories of BAME leaders, academics and everyday citizens who have shaped our society for the better.

Their contributions have enriched our cultural, political and social fabric.

These are the stories that deserve to be told, not just in October, but every day of the year.

BAME communities still face significant challenges in their everyday lives. Structural inequalities persist in education, employment and healthcare. BAME individuals are disproportionately affected by poverty and discrimination, which limit their opportunities and social mobility.

A recent briefing from Shelter Scotland and Engender has revealed that the housing crisis we are facing in the city disproportionately impacts women, especially BAME, disabled and refugee women.

The report highlights the struggle faced by many to access safe, affordable housing.

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It shows that higher rates of poverty among women and their greater reliance on social security benefits restricts their access to housing.

And it highlights that homelessness services in Scotland are often poorly equipped to respond to women’s needs, particularly those fleeing domestic abuse.

Caring responsibilities and safety issues also create additional requirements for specific temporary homeless accommodation that local services often can’t meet.

All of these issues, the report rightly argues, show a deep gender bias in our housing and homelessness system. This bias has an even greater impact on women and children of colour.

Whilst we rightly celebrate the history and contributions of our BAME communities throughout the month of October, we must also use this opportunity to reaffirm our commitment to dismantling barriers they still face.

We need urgent action from all levels of government to address the housing crisis, improve economic opportunities and strengthen social services for all communities while recognising the disproportional disadvantage minority communities face.

It is not enough to celebrate diversity, we must ensure that our policies reflect our values of equality, fairness and justice for all.

Our shared future depends on breaking down structural barriers that have held so many back for too long.

An important but light heartened moment last weekend when we watched Dr Punam Krishnan bring Bollywood to Strictly Come Dancing during Black History Month.

It reminded many of us from an asian background the importance of music and dance in breaking barriers and representation.

A reminder why arts and cultural events including those celebrating the diversity of our city within schools, community centres and outdoor spaces must be protected from year-on-year budget pressures.

Black History Month matters, even more important is the next chapter of history for all of us to shape together.

Together, we can build a Scotland that offers opportunity and security for all.