Legacy, leadership, and the law: A Black History Month reflection
This Black History Month, successful business leader and magistrate, Dr Delroy, is calling on people from all walks of life to consider volunteering as a magistrate, to help shape a fairer society.
Dr Delroy, who sits as a magistrate in West Yorkshire, is the son of Windrush generation immigrants. Growing up he experienced significant racism throughout his education and professional career. His journey has been marked by resilience, achievement, and a deep commitment to giving back.
Dr Delroy’s journey spans from being the first in his family to study at Oxbridge to leading organisations across health, housing, and the arts. His achievements include making history as the first person of colour to chair a European University Business School board. Also, in 2020, he became the first person of colour to be appointed as regional chairman of the Institute of Directors in Yorkshire and the North East. His story is one of breaking barriers and building bridges.
But for Dr Delroy, success is not just about personal milestones. It’s about community impact. He says:
“Black communities across the world have shown extraordinary resilience in the face of adversity. From overcoming centuries of oppression to leading movements of liberation and progress, these achievements remind us that strength comes from unity. Today, we celebrate not just survival, but triumph, creativity and leadership.
“The opportunity to represent the community as a magistrate in a very positive way helps with that legacy of hope. The younger generation, regardless of their colour, should use my own life story as theirs, because their story is mine, and my story is theirs.”
Diversity in the magistracy is growing – but there is more to do
As of April 2025, 14% of magistrates in England and Wales come from ethnic minority backgrounds – up from 9% in 2015. Black or Black British individuals now make up 4% of magistrates. While progress is being made, the Ministry of Justice is keen to see even greater representation.
Dr Delroy is keen to help the judiciary increase its ethnic diversity. He describes being a magistrate, and representing the crown, as a privilege with purpose. He says through him, and many other black magistrates, there is an opportunity to change things for the better while serving as role model for all generations, especially those less fortunate. He adds:
“I want to level the playing field. I routinely reflect on those who came before me, those who sacrificed for me, who gave up so much so I could just be here today. I see my sacrifice is small compared to their sacrifices.”
Work, volunteering and life balance
Dr Delroy fits his magistrate duties around his professional life and encourages others to do the same. He adds:
Ready to represent your community and make a difference?
If you’re looking for a meaningful way to give back, develop new skills, and help shape justice in your community, consider becoming a magistrate.