London’s black history stretches back centuries, back to the Roman occupation of Britain. So how much of this history do we actually know?
Join us for a fascinating walk through the heart of London, including Parliament, Whitehall and Trafalgar Square, uncovering some of the remarkable Black lives and stories that have shaped the capital, stories that have too often been overlooked, forgotten or left out of the history books.
Along the way we’ll meet:
· A musician at the centre of Henry VIII’s court
· Black Georgians living and working in London
· Black campaigners who challenged slavery
· Black sailors in the middle of one of Britain’s greatest sea battles
· Activists who fought for justice and equality
This is a walk about people, places, courage and change, discovering a side of Westminster’s history that you may never have encountered before.
We’ll begin at Westminster City Archives, where you can explore a special Black History Month archive display, available throughout the day, before heading out onto the streets of Westminster to discover the stories for ourselves. The closest tube stations are Westminster and St. James’s Park- please arrive at least 10 minutes earlier to ensure a prompt start time!
Tours are led by Westminster Guides and joined by the Association’s patron Dr. Michael Ohajuru, cultural historian, a Senior Fellow of the Institute of Commonwealth Studies, and the director of The John Blanke Project.
Part of Black History Month, supported by the City of Westminster Guide Lecturers Association.
Tickets cost £14 and all proceeds will be donated to the charity Farm Africa and the Lord Mayor of the City of Westminster’s charity the Young Westminster Foundation. Please note that not refunds will be issued since all funds go to the indicated charities.
Come and discover the Black history hiding in plain sight in the heart of London!Read less