Southwark Black Parents Forum (SBPF) drew its heritage project to a close in October.
It was established to enlighten people of all nations, and recognise the contribution of African, Black, West Indian, Caribbean, Pacific Island and Indigenous communities.
Since organising Akwasidae Festival at Camberwell Green Park in July, SBPF brought an exhibition on West Africa & War to Dulwich Picture Gallery and Southwark Heritage Centre. The exhibition featured photographs, military uniforms, and other insignia of the West African Frontier Force of World War I.
At Dulwich Picture Gallery, this was accompanied by talks on the history of West Africans in the UK from guest speakers Selena Carty, founder of Black Poppy Rose, and historian Hakin Adi. The discussion at Southwark Heritage Centre explored issues with the Windrush Compensation Scheme, led by Sharon Anthony-Tewkesbury (Southwark Law Centre). It also featured a roundtable discussion with a National Parliamentary Windrush Committee Member and several traditional West African rulers: Queen Naa Tsotsoo Soyoo I, Chief Onyema Ajiduah, Nana Awuku Gyan, Amanone Hene, Nana Sekyiwaa Daadom and Soabe Kyidomhemaa.
The SBPF Heritage project has proved a success. An attendee said,
“the exhibition and the workshops should be available in schools, libraries and town halls.”
Others said the sessions were “educational, informative and that the West African refreshments were a great complement to the event.”
You can still catch the exhibition at the Southwark Council atrium on Tooley Street!
To keep up with the SBPF, follow them on social media (Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, YouTube) or visit their website.
