Commemorating the life and thirty-year legacy of Stephen Lawrence: A fireside chat with Baroness Doreen Lawrence OBE

Stephen Lawrence was like many young adults. He worked hard in school, spent time with friends and family, and had a part-time job. He dreamed of using his talents in maths, art and design as an architect. Like many young adults, he wanted to make a difference in his community. But 30 years ago, on 22 April 1993, Stephen was murdered in a racially motivated attack at the age of 18. 

Since his death, Stephen’s mother, Baroness Doreen Lawrence OBE, has dedicated her life to activism and rectifying societal and judicial wrongs through the Stephen Lawrence Day Foundation. The foundation focuses on raising global awareness of racial inequalities and creating an inclusive society that fosters opportunities for marginalized young people in the U.K. 

Bloomberg Global Head of Diversity and Inclusion Pamela Hutchinson OBE recently sat down with Baroness Lawrence for a fireside chat. They discussed the events surrounding Stephen’s murder, Baroness Lawrence’s pursuit of the truth, and the impact of the Macpherson report on racism in the Metropolitan police force 24 years on.

Stephen Lawrence Day was launched in 2018 and is an opportunity for people, communities, and organisations to come together and honour Stephen’s life and legacy, stand up against discrimination and work towards a more hopeful tomorrow. “I feel that, as disruptors and agitators for positive change, we all have a role to play in creating a just and equitable world for us all,” said Hutchinson.

Watch the full conversation between Baroness Lawrence and Pamela Hutchinson, as they discuss resilience in the face of fighting justice.

Reflecting on the 30th anniversary, Bloomberg employees share what the day means to them:

Richard Abiade, Head of Sales for London Hedge Funds: “30 years since a moment that shaped my childhood and stole the innocence of a generation. I am proud of Baroness Doreen Lawrence and her family for persevering in their battles because it’s this strength that inspired and continues to inspire the work of those trying to bring about sustainable social change. There is still a huge job to do for this and future generations”

Sonia Meggie, EMEA D&I Client Partner for  News & Media: “I lived close to the location where Stephen Lawrence lost his life and felt the shock and devastation of his passing. 30 years on, there is still much to be done to improve racial equity.  I appreciate all that Baroness Doreen Lawrence and the Stephen Lawrence Day Foundation continue to do for young people and our community nationally.”

John George, EMEA Head of Analytics: “The loss of Stephen sent shockwaves through a community and the wider nation. In the subsequent 30 years we have seen many positive changes, yet sadly, many things remain the same. The huge strength and resilience shown by Baroness Doreen Lawrence and her family to secure justice after a relentless 19-year battle, serve to underline the need to continually strive for equity and justice for all.”

Through Bloomberg’s partnership with the Stephen Lawrence Day Foundation, employees can support directly through our employee giving program.