Join us on a literary journey at our upcoming creative writing workshop, guided by renowned author J.T. Williams. Explore the captivating life of Una Marson, a writer, poet, and pioneering activist, who made history as the first Black woman to work for the BBC, as featured in Williams' enlightening book, "Bright Stars of Black British History."

This event goes beyond traditional learning – it's a hands-on experience for the entire family. Immerse yourselves in Marson's compelling story and participate in engaging creative writing activities that bring her legacy to life.

This workshop is designed for ages 9 and above, promising an enriching experience for both young minds and their families. Don't miss out on this unique chance to blend education with creativity.

Black Cultural Archives proudly host Aniefiok Ekpoudom and his compelling work, 'Where We Come From: Rap, Home & Hope in Modern Britain.' This exploration delves into the rich history and profound impact of British rap and grime, shining a spotlight on the narratives of artists and communities shaped by this influential music. Ekpoudom's narrative seeks to cultivate a profound understanding of the pivotal role these genres play in offering solace, shaping identity, and instilling purpose in those who have felt like outliers.

This event is a celebration of the resilience, courage, and shared culture within these communities, painting a vivid and compassionate portrait of rap, identity, place, and the evolving social and human condition in modern Britain. Don't miss this opportunity to gain insight into the profound connections between music, community, and the human spirit.

Join us for a special conversation & reading with author Professor Nicola Rollock to celebrate the paperback release of 'The Racial Code: Tales of Resistance and Survival.'

Black Cultural Archives is delighted to welcome author Professor Nicola Rollock in conversation with Nels Abbey (author of 'Think Like a White Man') to celebrate the paperback release of 'The Racial Code: Tales of Resistance and Survival' published by Penguin Press.

Longlisted for the 2023 Bread & Roses Award for radical political writing, ‘The Racial Code’ uniquely interweaves storytelling with research to shed light on the hidden pain and cost of navigating everyday racism. ‘The Racial Code’ compels us to rethink how we can genuinely achieve racial justice.

The evening will begin with a special reading from ‘The Racial Code’ by actress Cherrelle Skeete, acclaimed for her roles in 'Hanna,' 'Harry Potter,' and the Young Vic's production of 'Beneatha's Place' and will involve audience interaction and discussion.

Join us for this exclusive Black Cultural Archives event and book signing. Copies of ‘The Racial Code' will be available for purchase on the evening.

Join Black Cultural Archives’ Youth Forum this February for the third and final instalment in a three-part event series, 'Making Space' designed to empower a new generation to connect with our rich archives. ‘Making Space: To Mobilise’ is a film and panel discussion, responding to the deterioration of community and seeking to mobilise collective action.

Join us on 24th February 3pm - 6pm for a unique opportunity for young minds to remember, protest, and mobilise. Secure your free ticket now for the finale event of this series before they sell out. While our Youth Forum events primarily cater to individuals aged 16-25, we welcome participants of all ages who share an interest in our themes. Don't miss your chance to be part of this transformative experience.

Join Black Cultural Archives’ Youth Forum this February for the second in a three-part event series, 'Making Space' designed to empower a new generation to connect with our rich archives. ‘Making Space: To Protest’ is a talk and panel discussion about the histories of protest stored within BCA, followed by a protest-banner-making session.

Please note: this event is about historical and contemporary examples of protest. As such, we will be discussing themes relating to war, brutality, and acts of genocide.

While our Youth Forum events primarily cater to individuals aged 16-25, we welcome participants of all ages who share an interest in our themes. Considering the nature of this event, we encourage attendance from those aged 11 and above. Your enthusiasm and diverse perspectives will undoubtedly contribute to the richness of our discussions. Join us, regardless of age, and let's engage in meaningful conversations together.

Join us on 17th February 2pm - 4pm for a unique opportunity for young minds to remember, protest, and mobilise. Secure your free ticket now for the second of three events before they sell out. Don't miss your chance to be part of this transformative experience.

Join Black Cultural Archives’ Youth Forum this February for the first in a three-part event series, 'Making Space' designed to empower a new generation to connect with our rich archives. ‘Making Space: To Remember’ is an interactive workshop and craft-making session, reflecting on the importance of archiving personal histories.

Join us on 10th February 2pm - 4pm for a unique opportunity for young minds to remember, protest, and mobilise. Secure your free ticket now for the first of three events before they sell out. Don't miss your chance to be part of this transformative experience.

Join BCA in conversation to discuss the artists' journey in creating their ongoing body of video works Genetic Automata.

Discover the compelling narrative behind the film _God_Mode_ with multi-disciplinary artists Larry Achiampong and David Blandy in an exclusive in-conversation event hosted by Black Cultural Archives’ Managing Director, Lisa Anderson. Join us at BCA for an engaging exploration into the roots of deeply ingrained racial ideas in society and the pivotal role of science in shaping these perceptions. Doors open at 6:00 pm.

Join BCA in conversation with Principal Genetic Counsellor Sasha Henriques to discuss the landscape of contemporary scientific research.

Delve into the complex tapestry of eugenics, its enduring impact on the Black community, ongoing research, and the age-old debate of nature versus nurture. Uncover the pivotal role that institutions like Black Cultural Archives and Wellcome Collection, as well as individuals like Sasha Henriques, play in challenging the narrative. Doors open at 6:00 pm.

Explore Black British history at our Author and Illustrator Talk on October 28th, when the exhibition comes alive with an inspiring talk by the author Atinuke and illustrator Kingsley Nebechi. Gain insights into their creative process, the stories that drove them, and the significance of highlighting these narratives today. This event is in collaboration with our partners Bloomsbury publishers.

Black Cultural Archives are delighted to host the book launch of" Gerlin Bean: Mother of the Movement." by AS Francis.

A highlight of the evening will be an author talk/panel discussion with AS Francis, focusing on Gerlin Bean's significant contributions to Black radical organizing in the 1960s-1980s. The panel will include Stella Dadzie, Kelly Foster and moderated by Deanna Lyncook.

Much of AS Francis's research was done at Black Cultural Archives.

Join us for a thought-provoking discussion on the challenges faced by Black individuals in the UK, exploring the impact on mental health.

In partnership with UCL and The Ties That Bind project team we invite you to this a community dialogue, reflecting on social, political, and individual struggles for Black survival in the UK, how this links to our mental health, and visions for solutions that are owned by Black Communities.

Join us in person, or online, where we will hear from speakers including:

Prof. Patrick Vernon, Windrush Justice Campaigner

Three Little Birds + Q&A with Sir Lenny Henry and directors Charles McDougall and Yero Timi-Biu and composer Benjamin Kwasi Burrell

Free ticket offer

“This series will be a tribute to the giants who came before us and walked cold streets to create new lives for themselves.” – Sir Lenny Henry

Written and created by Sir Lenny Henry, Three Little Birds is a spirited, moving, funny and utterly heartfelt drama. A triumphant celebration of immigration, community and the strength of Black womanhood, it was inspired by the life-affirming stories of Sir Lenny Henry’s mother and all those who have travelled to make Britain their home. Set in 1957, post-Windrush, and amidst the booming decade set alight by promise, the rhythm of rock and roll, swing, Hollywood starlets and fabulous fashion, Three Little Birds will introduce Dudley and the rest of the world to gregarious sisters Leah (Neil) and Chantrelle (Coomber) and their virtuous, bible-loving acquaintance, Hosanna (Belo), as they board a cruise ship from Jamaica bound for a new life in Blighty.

We would love to offer you up to 4 free tickets to this event, use code BIRDS when booking