Response to Race Riots
The recent scenes of racist and Islamophobic violence targeting Black and Brown communities, hauntingly recall the conditions that led to the formation of Black Cultural Archives in the 1980s. Despite the 40-year gap, at least two things remain the same; the persistence of race-baiting in media and political conversations on immigration, and a failure to honestly confront the truth about race, empire and colonialism in how we teach the history of modern Britain. This must change.
The current surge in racial hatred and bigotry not only threatens the safety and well-being of our communities but also undermines the very principles of justice, equality, and human dignity that most of us stand for. Black Cultural Archives strongly condemns the perpetrators of violence and those accountable for the conditions that have fuelled these riots. We stand in solidarity with all affected communities against racism, Islamophobia and violence in all its forms.
Now, more than ever, it is imperative that we mobilise support for anti-racist education and the protection of organisations dedicated to reparative justice and racial equity. Education is a powerful tool in dismantling the lies and prejudices that fuel such violence. By investing in comprehensive anti-racist education, empowered by inclusive historical information that reflects the truth about immigration, and all that has been contributed, experienced and achieved by Black and Brown communities - we can finally cultivate a society that understands, respects, and celebrates diversity.
It’s time for an end to the politics of hostility and division, and we demand accountability from our politicians and media platforms. We urge our allies, partners, and all individuals who believe in justice and equality to stand with us. Demand support for institutions that champion reparative justice, ensuring that the voices of those affected by historical and ongoing injustices are heard and valued. Together, we can create a society where every individual, regardless of their race or background, is afforded the dignity, respect, and opportunities they deserve.
Black Cultural Archives remains steadfast in our commitment to preserving and promoting the history and culture of Black people in the UK. We will continue to fight for a future where racial equity is not just an aspiration but a reality. We call on all to join us in this critical work. Let us stand together, united against hatred, and committed to building a just and equitable society for all.
Signed,
Black Cultural Archives
A DECADE DOWN, MANY TO GO: RECLAIMING NARRATIVES
As we commemorate ten years of Black Cultural Archives (BCA) at Windrush Square, we reflect on a journey rich in impact, resilience, and triumph. This milestone is not just a celebration of persistence, it’s a testament to the unwavering urgency of this work, and our community’s commitment to preserve, share and champion the rich tapestry of Black and British history. A history that’s always in the making.
Since opening our doors at 1 Windrush Square on 24th July 2014, our archives, exhibitions, and educational programmes have striven to promote historical reflection as a crucial tool in learning from our past, to build a more racially just and equitable future for all. Throughout one of the most politically tumultuous decades in modern British history, we’ve welcomed a multitude of writers, PhD researchers, school students, teachers, lecturers, artists, community leaders, activists, employee groups and curious culture lovers, to engage with our treasure trove of collections on the contributions, struggles, and achievements of Black Britons. They’ve gone on to complete doctorates, write books and newspaper stories, make films, visual artworks, host conferences, educational courses and more - all of which enrich our national narrative and ignite positive change.
Over the past decade, our small but mighty team have worked with hundreds of donors across the country, who’ve helped us amass over 100 new collections, including 13,000 books centring Black British history. We’ve worked with a variety of community groups and curators, to host over 40 exhibitions and 450 events. We’ve provided educational workshops for up to 10,000 people, and provided a crucial sanctuary for research and reflection for over 4000 reading room visitors.
This 10-year celebration is also an opportunity to acknowledge that BCA has always been an urgent community-led, collective effort, that simply would not exist without the partnership and generosity of local community leaders, Lambeth Council, funders, schools, university and heritage sector partners alongside our volunteers, staff and Trustees. We’re forever grateful for their transformative support for our mission, a mission, that’s always been part of a reparative movement inspired by the bravery of the Black Parents Movement, and those working towards Windrush Justice movement and enduring truth that Black Lives Matter. Four years on from the reminder that this work can never be taken for granted, this 10 year anniversary is an opportunity to underline that this collective effort is needed now more than ever.
With a decade down and many to go. We call on you, the community, to continue to support us and our work to elevate the undeniable power of our rich, nuanced, complex Black history in the realisation of a racially just and tolerant society.
Happy 10th Anniversary Black Cultural Archives at Windrush Square!
Click here to read the full statement, as seen in The Voice Newspaper.
To get in touch about partnerships or sponsorships please complete this Form.
Black Cultural Archives are nominated for a National Diversity Award
This is fabulous news!!. It is such an honour for BCA to be nominated for the prestigious Community Organisation Award for Race, Religion & Faith at the National Diversity Awards, in partnership with HSBC UK!
We're thrilled about this recognition and would truly appreciate your support by voting for us.
Our mission is to collect, preserve, and celebrate the histories of people of African and Caribbean descent in the UK and to inspire and give strength to individuals, communities, and society.
To vote, click here before 15 May 2024.
Alternatively, a nomination form can be sent upon request, please email emma@nationaldiversityawards.co.uk
Finalists will be revealed during the week of 1 July 2024.
Thank you for standing with us!
New Black Cultural Archives exhibition ‘Ties That Bind’; Reflections on Black Life, Surviving Hostile Environments, and Mental Health.
Black Cultural Archives proudly unveils its latest exhibition, 'Ties That Bind'. A new exhibition on intergenerational Black experiences in the UK.
Opening on 9th May 2024 and continuing until 9th June 2024. This unique mixed-media exhibition provides a reflective space to explore Black mental health, engaging with intergenerational experiences of Black life in the UK.
At the heart of this exhibition is the pioneering data from the University College London's 'Ties That Bind' project, the first research initiative to deeply examine the intergenerational and broader mental health consequences of the Windrush scandal. This scandal has profoundly impacted Black Caribbean and Black African families, along with the wider Black community in the UK.
Through an evocative array of photography, poetry, spoken word, and multimedia collages, "Ties That Bind" delves into critical themes such as the necessity of intergenerational dialogue, the profound weight of Black existence on mental health, the pursuit of joy, and the significant impacts of systemic injustices enacted by the Home Office.
“The 'Ties That Bind' exhibition is more than just a showcase of art. It is a crucial forum for education and connection, aiming to ignite discussions that bridge generational gaps and foster a deeper understanding of the complex mental health challenges facing the Black community today.” Hannah John –MBA, FRSA, CMgr – Deputy Director - Black Cultural Archives.
Windrush Candlelight Vigil in Brixton
On 6th April in Windrush Square, campaigners and supporters came together for a solemn vigil commemorating the sixth anniversary since the exposure of the Windrush scandal. The gathering aimed to honour the memory of those who passed away without receiving justice.
Over 50 individuals assembled outside Black Cultural Archives in Brixton to participate in the event, which was orchestrated by various organisations dedicated to supporting the victims of the scandal. Among them were the Windrush National Organisation (WNO), Churches Together in England, and Black Cultural Archives.
BCA Managing Director Lisa Anderson stated before the event "Black Cultural Archives stands in solidarity with those affected by the Windrush Scandal, hosting a vigil to honour their resilience and demand for justice. We urge the government to implement Wendy William's Report recommendations and to safeguard against future injustices. Together, we remember, reflect, and demand rightful action."
The government has declared its decision to forego the implementation of three
recommendations outlined in last year's report by the head of the inquiry. This includes shelving plans for the introduction of a migrants' commissioner and reconciliation events, despite initial agreement to these measures.
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to all the organisations, families, campaigners, and survivors who united with us, both in person at Windrush Square, Brixton, and online, to commemorate the 6th anniversary of the Windrush Scandal. Your presence and solidarity are deeply appreciated.
Photos courtesy of Andrew Carnegie
Celebrating Excellence: Black Cultural Archives Receives 2023 Experts' Choice Award
We are thrilled to announce a momentous achievement for Black Cultural Archives: the 2023 Experts' Choice Award! This recognition stands as a testament to our steadfast commitment to collecting, preserving, and celebrating the histories of people of African and Caribbean descent in the UK and inspiring and giving strength to individuals, communities, and society. We are honoured to have been acknowledged as one of the highest-rated attractions in London by this industry accolade.
A Distinctive Accolade Based on Professional Reviews
The Experts' Choice Award is unique among industry accolades, drawing its significance from an array of professional reviews from over 100 respected publications. This includes leading travel guides, renowned magazines, and esteemed newspapers. Now in its seventh year, this award has garnered attention from prominent media outlets such as The New York Times, The Daily Telegraph, and GQ.
Uplifting Voices, Shaping Perspectives
As an institution committed to preserving and celebrating Black history and culture, this recognition holds a special place in our journey. The acknowledgment as one of the highest-rated attractions in London highlights the dedication of our team and the impact of our work. We understand that our mission is not just about reflecting on the past but also about shaping a more inclusive and informed future.
A Milestone of Excellence
It's important to underscore the significance of this achievement: fewer than 2% of businesses receive an Experts' Choice Award. This statistic further amplifies the excellence we consistently strive for in every aspect of our work, from our engaging exhibitions to our educational programs and community outreach efforts.
Gratitude and Looking Forward
This achievement would not have been possible without the unwavering support of our dedicated team, partners, and community members. Your passion and commitment fuel our mission and inspire us to continue with optimism. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who has played a role in Black Cultural Archives. Together, we've proven that the power of culture, history, and community can create lasting change.
Stay connected with us for more updates, events, and initiatives as we move forward in our mission to make Black history and culture an integral part of the global narrative.
#HistoryMatters BCA pens letter to stop University of Chichesters axing of the MRes History of Africa & the African Diaspora
For over 40 years Black Cultural Archives has been dedicated to ensuring that Black British history and culture is adequately represented at all levels of society. Our charitable purpose is to educate the United Kingdom public and therefore we recognise the importance of embedding Black history at all levels within the education system, including the Higher Education sector.
Recently, University of Chichester announced that all recruitment to the Master of Research (MRes), History of Africa and the African Diaspora has been suspended. A comparable course is not offered by this or any other university in the UK and this imposition, is threatening Professor Adi (the first African-British historian to become a professor of history in Britain) with redundancy, whom was excluded from the decision.
Professor Adi has worked relentlessly at the University of Chichester for over a decade and pioneered the way for successive historians from similar backgrounds and underrepresented communities.
In 2021, Goldsmiths University of London announced job cuts targeting its English and History departments, which would affect courses in Black British and Caribbean Literature, Queer and Black British History (the UK’s only course of its kind), and Critical Theory.
Read our full open letter to the Council & Senior Management team at Chichester University, below.
Read and sign the live petition, written by History Matters.
A Great Day in Brixton
A photoshoot of Black British artists
on 26th October, Black Cultural Archives hosted a historic group photoshoot of notable Black British artists in Britain.
Inspired by ‘A Great Day in Harlem’, the iconic photograph that pictured 57 Jazz luminaries of the day, taken by freelance photographer Art Kane for Esquire magazine on August 12, 1958.
The photoshoot was to commemorate the 40th anniversary of the British black arts movement, which began on 28th October 1982 with the first national Black art convention, started by the Wolverhampton Young Black Artists (also known as Blk Art Group).
Artists, both established and emerging, were invited to the event to capture a snapshoot of Briton’s Black art movement. Notable artists included Charlie Phillips, Keith Piper, Marlene Smith and Claudette Johnson.
Over 60 artists arrived for the photoshoot. Of the event, BCA Interim Managing Director, Lisa Anderson, said:
“I thought it was important to make sure that each individual’s face, their individual personhood, was documented. And I couldn’t think of a better way to do that other than by taking a picture that captures a moment in time that people can reference for the future.”
The final photograph will be available as a limited edition print at Black Cultural Archives later this year.
For Press enquiries, please contact marketing@bcaheritage.org.uk
Find out more about BCA’s Black Futures Season
Visit Transforming Legacies exhibition
#BlackFutures #BCAFutures
BCA Chair hosts awards ceremony for Black Future leaders
Last night, BCA’s Chair, Dr Yvonne Thompson CBE | DL hosted the 40x40 Awards ceremony at Brixton House, followed by an after party at Black Cultural Archives.
The 40x40 awards are to honour Black British individuals who are poised as the next generation of leaders that exemplify the mission and values of BCA.
Of the awards, BCA Chair, Dr Yvonne Thompson CBE | DL, said:
“Last night's 40x40 celebration embodied the exciting trajectory for the Black Cultural Archives. As an archival organisation responsible for safeguarding and preserving black history, heritage and the black experience across the United Kingdom, we are keen to honour our personnel throughout our short history.
Our founder, Len Garrison, laid the foundations of our mission. His legacy continues to be the foundation on which we strive. The 40x40 provides us with an opportunity to herald in future African and Caribbean heritage leaders throughout the UK.
In doing so, we pay homage to our own Ms Dawn Hill CBE, whose tenacity and resilience maintained our founder's vision throughout our first forty years. Last night's hugely successful event allows Ms Dawn
to pass the baton forward to our Future Leaders and Ambassadors to hold in trust for the next forty years.
I would like to thank our stakeholders, sponsors, all of the BCA Board of Trustees, staff team and the wider community across the UK for their support.”
The 40x40 awards are in partnership with Black Britain and Beyond.
As part of BCA’s Black Futures Season – focused on the future of Black, contemporary life in Britain, Black Cultural Archives hosted a portrait exhibition in to honour the awardees and the impact they are making on society.
The exhibition closes on 22 October 2022.
Find out more about BCA Chair’s 40x40 awards
#BlackFutures #BCAFutures
Justice for Chris Kaba
[From RC/RF/17/02/A Protest for Anthony Leonard, Notting Hill, 1986]
On the 5th of September, Chris Kaba, a 23 year old unarmed Black man, was killed after being pursued and shot by a firearms police officer.
Chris Kaba’s unjust death, and the delayed response from the Metropolitan Police in suspending the firearms officer is another devastating example in the shameful history of the disproportionate use of force by the police in Britain against Black people.
Black people die disproportionately as a result of use of force or restraint by the police. These names include:
Sarah Reed. Mark Duggan. Sheku Bayoh. Christopher Alder. Smiley Culture. Jimmy Mubenga. Michael Power. Cherry Groce. Kingsley Burrell. Joy Gardner. Sean Rigg.
We name only a few.
Their killings are unacceptable.
BCA stands in firm agreement with the unmet demands made of the Metropolitan Police, including the release of body camera footage and clear communication on the timeline for the IOPC investigation.
We extend our deepest condolences to Chris Kaba’s family and friends, who mourn the loss of their loved one. We stand in solidarity with our communities in the call for transparency, accountability and justice.
The Justice for Chris Kaba campaign has declared Saturday 17th September, a National Day of Action for justice, with protests and actions being organized across the country. For details please see: https://www.instagram.com/justiceforchriskaba/
Black Philanthropy in Britain
BCA advises on a ground-breaking new report examining patterns and motivations for Black giving
Britain’s first ever report into Black philanthropy and charitable giving, published last week, reflects the voices of people of colour in the UK talking about their patterns of giving, why they give, to whom and how much.
BCA's Relationship Manager Preeya Anand joined the Advisory Group for GiveBlack's latest report, ‘Valuing the Black Philanthropic Pound’; a study produced in partnership with UCL Institute for Innovation and Public Purpose, drawing on an evidence base of focus groups and interviews held with Black donors, including high-net-worth individuals, and Black-led charitable organisations.
Black Britons have a strong history of giving and volunteering through churches, mosques and other community organisations, as well as a tradition of supporting extended family members in the UK and beyond.
This study is critical in telling the full story of philanthropic impact of Black donors/black-led charities in the UK - information which has historically been missing from wider philanthropy conversations.
With continuing disproportional social and economic impacts on Black communities, this is a timely study.
Congratulations to all involved; Patricia Hamzahee FRSA, Keith Magee, Yvette Griffith, and many more.
Want to be our next Cultural Leader?
Applications open for third cohort of Cultural Leaders.
The Cultural Leaders Youth Employment Scheme provides paid work for 6 young people (aged 18-30 years old) every 6 months with London charities Poetic Unity @PoeticUnity, Theatre Peckham @TheatrePeckham and Black Cultural Archives @BCAHeritage. The scheme which is part of the Poetic Relief Project funded by the National Lottery Community Fund gives young people real on the job experience in the charity and art sectors.
The Cultural Leaders will run poetry workshops, events, provide support for the community and learn about the daily operations of the charity they are designated too.
The first cohort of Cultural Leaders started in September 2021, and they have been a great success! The Cultural Leaders have helped each charity extend their impact and they have learnt transferable skills they can use for future employment.
The future Cultural Leaders will have a passion for supporting the community and making a positive change in society. You will need strong interpersonal skills as you will be responsible for supporting and communicating with a large number of young people from a variety of backgrounds. Experience in youth work and leading workshops preferred but not essential as training will be provided.
Applications are now open for the third cohort of Cultural Leaders who will start on September 6th 2022.
#CulturalLeaders
Application deadline: 9 August 2022
Snap x BCA wins PRCA Dare award for Hidden Black Stories campaign
HIDDEN BLACK STORIES CAMPAIGN WINS AT PRCA DARE 2022
Black Cultural Archives in partnership with Snap have won a 2022 PRCA Dare award for Diversity and Inclusion.
PRCA, the world’s largest PR association, run the annual PRCA DARE Awards, to reward PR and communications professionals across the UK. The Diversity and Inclusion award celebrates PR campaigns that further efforts towards a more diverse and inclusive society.
The winning PR campaign, Hidden Black Stories, was supported by PrettyGreen and Broadcast Revolution and launched in February 2022. The aim of the project was to bring otherwise unknown histories of Black British and Black people in the U.K. to light. The project was launched alongside Nelson Mandela’s granddaughter Tukwini Mandela and used Augmented Reality (AR) to help unveil these hidden histories.
Research conducted by Snap, Black Cultural Archives and Research Without Borders found that on average, only 32% of Britons recognise famous historical black figures, compared with 63% recognising similarly important famous white figures. Our aim for this campaign was not only to highlight untold stories, but to open up a wider conversation about monuments and the representation of race within British history.
The campaign was launched in London’s Trafalgar Square, where Snapchatters received an immersive history lesson.
The location and stories shared were selected by a panel of experts from Slavery Rememberance, Black History Walks, Nubian Jak Trust, Mary Seacole Trust and 100 Great Black Britons.
We are hiring: Honorary Treasurer and Board Trustee
We have a new vacancy open for an Honorary Treasurer and Board Trustee.
To apply, please send your CV to info@bcaheritage.org.uk with the subject line:
‘BCA Honorary Treasurer’
Application deadline: 22nd June 2022
Snap x BCA bring untold stories of Black Britons to life with AR experience
HIDDEN STORIES OF BLACK BRITONS GO LIVE AS DIGITAL MONUMENTS IN TRAFALGAR SQUARE
Snap today announced the launch of its ‘Hidden Black Stories’ project, in partnership with the Black Cultural Archives, that will unveil hidden stories of Black British and Black people in the U.K. through Augmented Reality (AR) alongside Nelson Mandela’s granddaughter Tukwini Mandela.
Research conducted by Snap, the Black Cultural Archives and Research Without Borders found that on average, less than a third of Brits recognise famous historical black figures (32%), about half the level of those that recognise similarly important famous white figures (63%).
And in terms of how people learn about Black history, only a fifth (21%) said school was where they found out the most, with TV and streaming (43%), the news (38%) and books and libraries (33%) being higher. In fact, Brits are as likely to find out about important black figures from social media (21%).
In an example of Snap’s large scale ‘Local Lens’ technology first demoed on Carnaby Street, the whole of Trafalgar Square will become an immersive history lesson - telling Snapchatters the stories of Black British History that live behind the more famous monuments of the iconic London location.
The location and stories shared have been selected by a panel of experts from Slavery Rememberance, Black History Walks, Nubian Jak Trust, Mary Seacole Trust and 100 Great Black Britons.
Tukwini Mandela said: “I’m here today to see my grandfather’s statue being brought to life through incredible AR technology in London’s Trafalgar Square. Today is the anniversary of my grandfather’s release from prison. So it is even more poignant for me and I couldn’t be more excited that Snap and the Black Cultural Archives have invited me to attend as part of their mission to make Black history more visible, so it’s never forgotten.”
Ed Couchman, UK General Manager at Snap Inc. said: “Events over the last few years have ignited a global conversation about racial equity. In the UK, there was a particular focus on how race is represented in British History: how it is taught in schools and how it is celebrated in statues or landmarks up and down the country. There has been a lot of debate - sometimes quite heated - that the less positive historical context is missing from celebratory plaques or statues. And that many key Black British historic figures and stories are completely non-existent.”
Lisa Anderson, Managing Director (Interim), Black Cultural Archives said: “We are thrilled to be working with Snapchat on such an important initiative. Black Cultural Archives exists to preserve and champion the histories of African and Caribbean people in Britain, so the idea of recognising the history of British people of African descent in this way was really exciting to us. Black British History is full of incredible people and stories that deserve to be told. This Lens is a virtual award of recognition, the second of a series in which Snapchatters will be able to learn about people they may not have heard of or know very little about.”
FIND OUT MORE
Press release
Please direct all press enquiries to:
Sheeraz Gulsher - sgulsher@snapchat.com
Oteri Otobor - marketing@bcaheritage.org.uk
New Chair Dr Yvonne Thompson CBE, and interim Managing Director Lisa Anderson announced
Black Cultural Archives (BCA) is pleased to announce an exciting new chapter in our 40th year, with a change in leadership. Two key appointments have been made with a new Chair of the Board, Dr Yvonne Thompson CBE (started 4 January 2022) and a new Managing Director (interim), Lisa Anderson (started 6 December 2021).
The new appointments mark a brand new era of stability and impact for the Black Cultural Archives (BCA), building on the huge momentum of support and recognition gained in the wake of the 2020 Black Lives Matter resurgence, which brought about an official proposed commitment from key sectors within the UK to actively tackle racial inequality, dismantle institutional racism and eradicate anti-blackness within British society.
Both Dr Thompson and Lisa bring a wealth of experience and expertise to their roles.
Award-winning businesswoman, activist and founder of WinTrade Global Network, Dr Yvonne Thompson CBE said of her appointment and what she foresees for the BCA’s future:
“I am honoured to be trusted with this most prestigious position of leadership as the custodian of the UK’s black cultural archives, nurturing, and growing the concept by founders Len Garrison and Dawn Hill CBE, whose trusted hands have brought the organisation this far, and now that baton has been passed onto me. I am also looking forward to working with the board of Trustees, old and new, to deliver the new strategic vision for the oldest black owned and run institutions of its kind in the UK.
“Working with the new MD Lisa Anderson, my priorities are to grow and make the organisation fiscally competitive, and to ensure the BCA is top of mind when thinking about black historical information and education. Our mission is to welcome all interested audiences, and convert new ones, while moving the BCA onto a national and global stage.”
New MD Lisa Anderson, a highly-regarded independent curator, consultant and long time champion for Black British art, also spoke on the enduring significance of the archives and her excitement about its future. She added:
“The BCA was born from a hope for a more just British society, able to acknowledge the breadth of historic contributions made by Black people. As a girl I remember the swell of confidence I gained by learning about historical figures like Olaudah Equiano or Nanny of the Maroons, figures absent from my school history lessons, but central to the story of colonial and post-colonial Britain.
“Joining the BCA in its 40th year, as a child of the movement that brought it into being, is a full circle moment for me. And I’m clear that the BCA is needed now more than ever. Our hope is to celebrate the BCA’s achievements and consolidate its position as a national heritage treasure, dedicated to collecting, preserving and celebrating Black History. With my leadership and support of new Chair Dr Yvonne Thompson CBE, we are entering a new chapter of impactful and collaborative leadership that we know will stand the test of time.”
For further information, please contact adenike@theexcellenceagency.com
Applications for the second cohort of the Cultural Leaders Youth Employment Scheme are open
The Cultural Leaders Youth Employment Scheme provides paid work for 6 young people (aged 18-30 years old) every 6 months with London charities Poetic Unity, Theatre Peckham, and Black Cultural Archives. The scheme which is part of the Poetic Relief Project funded by the National Lottery Community Fund gives young people real on-the-job experience in the charity and art sectors. The Cultural Leaders will run poetry workshops, events, provide support for the community and learn about the daily operations of the charity they are designated to.
The first cohort of Cultural Leaders started in September 2021, and they have been a great success! The Cultural Leaders have helped each charity extend their impact and they have learned transferable skills they can use for future employment.
Applications are now open for the second cohort of Cultural Leaders who will start on March 1st, 2022. If you’re 18-30 years old and would like to apply for this role please send your name, age, and current employment status to info@poeticunity.org.uk with the title ‘Cultural Leaders.’ Please note applications close on Friday 4th February at 5pm.
CULTURAL LEADER JOB DESCRIPTION
CULTURAL LEADER APPLICATION FORM
About the Organisations
Poetic Unity is a Brixton-based charity that provides support and services for young people across the UK. Our vision is to give young people a voice and to empower them to reach their highest potential. We use poetry as a tool to support young people’s mental health, education, physical health, community cohesion, and personal development. Poetic Unity is a Black/Black Mixed-led charity that works with some of the most marginalised young people in the UK. Founded in 2015, Poetic Unity has provided hundreds of events and programmes for thousands of young people to date.
Instagram: @PoeticUnity
Twitter: @Poetic_Unity
Facebook: PoeticUnityProject
Black Cultural Archives is the only national heritage centre dedicated to collecting, preserving, and celebrating the histories of African and Caribbean people in Britain. Founded in 1981, BCA's mission is to record, preserve and celebrate the history of people of African descent in Britain.
Instagram: @BCAHeritage
Twitter: @BCAHeritage
Facebook: @BCAHeritage
Theatre Peckham founded in 1990 is an award-winning cultural venue for artistic excellence and social change. Through the power of theatre, we illuminate young voices, provide skills and opportunities, and platform excellent creatives who are locally focused with a national and international vision.
Instagram: @TheatrePeckham
Twitter: @TheatrePeckham
Facebook: @TheatrePeckham1
The National Lottery Community Fund is the largest funder of community activity in the UK – we’re proud to award money raised by National Lottery players to communities across England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland. National Lottery players raise £36 million each week for good causes throughout the UK. Since The National Lottery began in 1994, £43 billion has been raised for good causes which has supported over 635,000 projects, benefiting millions of people - that’s 255 projects per postcode area.
We are passionate about funding great ideas that matter to communities and make a difference in people’s lives. At the heart of everything we do is the belief that when people are in the lead, communities thrive. Thanks to the support of National Lottery players, our funding is open to everyone. We’re privileged to be able to work with the smallest of local groups right up to UK-wide charities, enabling people and communities to bring their ambitions to life.
Instagram: @tnlcommunityfund
Twitter: @TNLComFund
Facebook: @TNLCommunityFund
#SaveGoldsmiths BCA pens letter to the Council & Senior Management Team at Goldsmiths, University of London
This year marks Black Cultural Archives’ 40th anniversary, and since our inception, we have been dedicated to ensuring that Black British history and culture is adequately represented at all levels of society. Our charitable purpose is to educate the United Kingdom public and therefore we recognise the importance of embedding Black history at all levels within the education system and have been focussing on engaging with partners in the Higher Education sector, to bring new research and new stories about our shared histories to everyone.
Recently, Goldsmiths, University of London announced job cuts targeting its English and History departments, which would affect courses in Black British and Caribbean Literature, Queer and Black British History (the UK’s only course of its kind), and Critical Theory.
Read our full letter below, to the Council & Senior Management team in support to "halt the decimation” of the departments.
Read the original petition, written by academics, researchers, and artists who have been acquainted with Goldsmiths in various ways.
Arike Oke, Managing Director departs Black Cultural Archives on 30 October
The board of trustees of Black Cultural Archives (BCA) has today announced that Arike Oke is to step down as Managing Director at the end of BCA's Black Futures Month in October. Arike will remain in an advisory capacity as a member of BCA’s Archives Advisory Group.
Arike’s successor Lisa Anderson will join BCA as Interim Managing Director on 6 December. Lisa is the multi-talented curator, consultant, and arts facilitator and is currently the Lead in Corporate Partnerships at the Lord Mayors Appeal. In addition, Lisa established the educational platform Black British Art and runs the Lisa Anderson Arts Consultancy.
Lisa Anderson
Arike Oke led the BCA, the home of Black British history, to new heights and established the 2030 strategy with the board, which has contributed to a year-on-year growing surplus for the charity.
During her tenure as Managing Director, Arike's highlights include:
- Building back BCA's financial reserves, even during the pandemic period
- Premiering Black Futures Month
- Positioning BCA as a major voice in UK heritage and culture
- Forging new creative and strategic partnerships
- Creating the Masterplan to reimagine BCA's 1 Windrush Square venue
Arike says,
“I am proud of the achievements of the team, our partners, and friends during my time at BCA and I look forward to joining the wider network of BCA supporters to help BCA reach even higher in the future. The BCA is now in a stronger position to fulfil its mission to preserve, document, and celebrate the histories of people of African and Caribbean descent. From working on a new Black history tube map to unveiling a new statue of Claudia Jones, BCA is likkle but tallawah! The new business plan that the staff team and board have created to underpin the 2030 strategy will see BCA thrive, with a focus on developing audiences, diversifying income, and putting the heritage collections front and centre.”
— Arike Oke
On behalf of the board of trustees Rukayah Sarumi says,
“Arike Oke came to BCA to reinvigorate the charity. She had a strategic vision and put in place a plan that has given BCA a strong foundation on which to build. We thank Arike for her significant leadership as we look forward to the fulfilment of BCA’s mission and vision.”
— Rukayah Sarumi
Lisa says,
“A large part of my adult life has been dedicated to celebrating, empowering and advocating for Black arts, Black histories and work of the Black Cultural Archives in a myriad of ways. I am excited and honoured to join the BCA team at this pivotal time, as the organisation continues to grow and further establish its position as the home of Black British History. I am looking forward to bringing all of my expertise and passion for this work to this leadership position as its Interim Managing Director”
— Lisa Anderson
For further information, please contact Desirée Banugo at: marketing@bcaheritage.org.uk
TfL launches Black History Tube Map with BCA
Today the Mayor of London, Saddiq Khan launched an evolved tube map dedicated to Black History, which was developed by BCA and Transport for London (TfL). The map features over 270 people, venues, and organisations to acknowledge and celebrate the rich and varied contribution Black people have made to London and the UK, from Pre-Tudor times to the present day.
The reimagined map replaces station names across the iconic Tube map with notable black people from history, with the associated Tube lines renamed to link them together by common themes – Firsts and Trailblazers; Georgians; Sports; Arts; LGBT+; Physicians; Performers; Literary World, and Community Organisers. By doing so, the map aims to highlight how Black people have played an intrinsic role in all parts of British life for thousands of years.
BCA x Tfl Black History Tube Map
Fascinating figures from Black British history can be found on the map, such as:
Cecile Nobrega - an accomplished classical composer, poet, sculptor and educator who led a 15-year campaign to establish a monument in Stockwell Memorial Gardens, Bronze Woman, the first public monument to black women to be on permanent display in England, who replaces St Paul’s station
HMS Queen Charlotte’s sailor and ‘captain of the fore-top’ William Brown, the first Black woman to serve in the Royal Navy by disguising herself as a man, who replaces Barons Court station.
Norwich born Pablo Fanque, equestrian extraordinaire and hugely successful Victorian circus owner, immortalised in The Beatles song “Being for the Benefit of Mr Kite!” who replaces Embankment station.
Jamaican born Edinburgh resident John Edmonstone who taught Charles Darwin taxidermy, who replaces Upminster Bridge station
Claudia Jones, a feminist, communist, political activist and pioneering journalist who was the co-founder of Notting Hill Carnival, who replaces Camden Town station
Joe Clough, made his first home in London and in 1910 Joe became London Transport's first black motorbus driver, who replaces Elm Park station.
“Arike Oke, Managing Director, Black Cultural Archives said: “London’s Black history is deeply embedded in its streets and neighbourhoods. We’re delighted as part of our 40th anniversary celebrations to use this opportunity to share new and old stories about Black history with Londoners and visitors to London. We hope that the map will be an invitation to find out more and to explore.”
— Arike Oke, Managing Director, Black Cultural Archives
“Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan said: “I am really proud that we’re able to launch Britain’s first-ever Black history Tube map, which celebrates the huge contribution Black Londoners have made, and continue to make, to our great city. This clever adaptation of TfL’s recognisable Tube map presents a wealth of information and history about the accomplishments of Black people in Britain in a fun and creative way.”
— Sadiq Khan, Mayor of London
Find out more information about the 270+ Black people, venues and organisations represented on the map
For all media enquiries, please contact Nadia Simon, Marketing Manager at nadia.simon@bcaheritage.org.uk