Preserving Culture, Resisting Erasure: BLAM UK Stands in Solidarity with Global Struggles

In a world where cultural traditions are increasingly under threat, movements for resistance and preservation are more vital than ever. At BLAM UK, we stand in unwavering solidarity with the struggles faced by communities in Africa, the Caribbean, South America, and across the African diaspora. These struggles, rooted in a shared history of colonisation and ongoing inequality, call for collective action to challenge systemic oppression, reclaim cultural identities, and ensure that the stories of our communities are not lost to time.

Colonisation and Its Legacy: A Global Struggle

The scars of colonisation run deep. From the Caribbean islands to the African continent, the legacies of foreign rule continue to shape the realities of millions. Countries like Puerto Rico (U.S.), Martinique (France), Guadeloupe (France), Curaçao (Netherlands), and Bermuda (UK) remain tied to former colonial powers, grappling with economic dependence and the erosion of cultural practices. In Puerto Rico, the struggles of gentrification and displacement—highlighted powerfully in Bad Bunny’s album Debí Tirar Más Fotos—mirror the experiences of communities across the diaspora.

The track Lo Que Le Pasó A Hawaii delivers a particularly poignant critique of these shared struggles. Through vivid lyrics like “They want to take away my river and also my beach. They want my neighbourhood and for your children to leave”, Bad Bunny captures the devastation of gentrification, displacement, and cultural erosion.

The song draws painful parallels between Puerto Rico and Hawaii, two islands rich in cultural heritage but deeply scarred by colonisation and exploitation. It is a rallying cry not just for Puerto Rico, but for the entire Caribbean and the broader diaspora, urging communities to resist the forces that threaten their lands, traditions, and identities.

Across the Caribbean, this message resonates. In Jamaica, for example, less than 1% of beaches remain accessible to the public due to land privatisation. Locals are often locked out of spaces vital to their livelihoods and leisure as resorts for wealthy tourists dominate the coastline. This shared struggle unites communities across the diaspora, reminding us that the fight for cultural preservation and justice is one we must face together.

Resistance Through Music: A Tradition of Defiance

Music has always been a powerful tool for resistance. In Debí Tirar Más Fotos, Bad Bunny revitalises Puerto Rican traditions like plena, a genre born from working-class struggles and African musical heritage.

Historically, plena served as a voice for the oppressed, spreading news and challenging colonial power structures. By blending plena with reggaeton, Bad Bunny bridges the past and present, showcasing how heritage can inspire modern activism.

This tradition of resistance through music is not unique to Puerto Rico. Across the diaspora, artists have used their platforms to uplift marginalised communities and fight systemic oppression.

From Bob Marley’s Get Up, Stand Up to Fela Kuti’s Beast of No Nation, music has given voice to the voiceless, serving as both a form of cultural preservation and a catalyst for change.

Preserving Memories, Telling Our Stories

At the heart of cultural preservation lies storytelling—the act of remembering, documenting, and sharing experiences. Bad Bunny’s album title, I Should’ve Taken More Photos, speaks to the urgency of this task. Memories, like traditions, are fragile. They can fade under the weight of displacement, gentrification, and the pressures of modernity. But through music, film, and community activism, we can resist this erasure.

The struggles faced by Puerto Rico, Jamaica, and countless other communities are not isolated—they are interconnected. From the privatisation of beaches in the Caribbean to the displacement of communities in Africa and the fight for indigenous land rights in South America, the forces of exploitation and inequality know no borders.

BLAM UK stands with these movements, championing the resilience of the African diaspora and advocating for the preservation of our shared cultural heritage. By challenging inequality and celebrating the richness of our traditions, we can create a future where no community is left behind.

Ethiopia: Reclaiming Africa’s Place in the Story of Christmas

As Christmas approaches on 25th December for much of the world, let us turn our attention to Ethiopia, a nation where Christmas or Ganna, as it is called, is celebrated on 7th January. But Ganna isn’t just a festive day on the Ethiopian calendar. It’s a powerful reminder of Africa’s central role in the origins of Christianity and a celebration of the rich traditions that thrive to this day.

Have you ever considered how Christianity is often depicted as a European religion? Let’s challenge that. Ethiopia was among the very first nations in the world and the first in Africa to embrace Christianity as its state religion in the 4th century, centuries before Europe. The Kingdom of Aksum’s early conversion under King Ezana positions Ethiopia not at the margins of Christianity but at its core. Isn’t it time we decolonised our understanding of the faith?

Ethiopia: A Cornerstone of Christianity

Ethiopia’s Christian history is extraordinary. While much of Europe was still practising pagan traditions, the Kingdom of Aksum boldly adopted Christianity as its official state religion. This monumental decision came long before the Roman Empire’s full conversion and even longer before the spread of Christianity to the UK. Aksum’s choice reminds us that Africa was a leader in shaping the Christian world, not a passive recipient.

The legacy of this decision can be seen in the breathtaking rock-hewn churches of Lalibela, carved into the earth during the 13th century. These 11 churches, now UNESCO World Heritage Sites, stand as enduring symbols of African ingenuity, faith, and resilience. They are also the heart of Ethiopian Christmas celebrations, where pilgrims gather to chant, pray, and celebrate through the night.

When we celebrate Ethiopia’s Christian heritage, we centre Africa in a story too often dominated by European narratives. It’s an act of reclaiming, of embracing the truth that Christianity’s history and future belong to everyone, especially Africans.

When and How is Ethiopian Christmas Celebrated?

Ethiopian Christians mark Christmas on 7th January, aligning with the 29th day of Tahsas in the Ethiopian Ge’ez calendar. The day is entirely focused on faith, community, and spiritual renewal, with no Santa Claus or gift-giving in sight.

The celebrations are preceded by a 40-day fasting period known as the Fast of the Prophets (Tsome Nebiyat), during which many abstain from meat, dairy, and alcohol. On Christmas Eve, families prepare for the feast by bringing home live chickens or meat. Imagine the excitement in the streets as neighbours gather to exchange greetings and prepare for the holy day ahead.

On Ganna Day itself, Ethiopians don their finest Shamma or Netela, white cotton robes with colourful ends, and attend church services. Worshippers light candles to symbolise the Star of Bethlehem and participate in processions, prayers, and Holy Communion. This day of devotion sets the tone for 12 days of festivities filled with dance, music, and cultural pride.

The Feast and Coffee Ceremony

After weeks of fasting, the Christmas feast is a joyful celebration of togetherness. At the centre of the meal is wat, a rich, spicy stew served with injera, Ethiopia’s iconic spongy flatbread. This communal way of eating — tearing off pieces of injera to scoop up the stew — reflects the unity and hospitality at the heart of Ethiopian culture.

But the highlight of any Ethiopian celebration is the coffee ceremony, a ritual steeped in tradition. Fresh coffee beans are roasted before being brewed and served in small cups. The ceremony isn’t just about the coffee; it’s a time for reflection, conversation, and connection. In Ethiopia, even something as simple as coffee becomes a meaningful act of togetherness and cultural pride.

Games and Celebrations: Keeping Tradition Alive

The joy of Ganna extends beyond the church and the dining table. Boys play a game also called Ganna, which resembles hockey and involves curved sticks and a wooden ball. This ancient game symbolises the shepherds who tended their flocks on the night of Christ’s birth.

Another thrilling tradition is Yeferas Guks, where men on horseback throw ceremonial lances in displays of skill and strength. These games, rooted in Ethiopian heritage, reflect the community’s pride in preserving its traditions while celebrating its faith.

Beyond Christmas: The Timkat Festival

Ethiopian Christmas is only the beginning of the festive season. Shortly after Ganna, Ethiopians celebrate Timkat, a three-day festival commemorating the baptism of Jesus in the Jordan River. The highlight of Timkat is the procession of the tabot, a replica of the Ark of the Covenant, carried with reverence through the streets.

In Gondar, Timkat reaches its climax at Fasil’s Pool, where the water is blessed, and participants leap in to symbolise renewal. With vibrant music, dancing, and prayers, Timkat is a powerful expression of faith and cultural pride, further highlighting Ethiopia’s central role in the Christian world.

Decolonising Christianity and Celebrating Black Joy

Ethiopia’s Christmas traditions remind us that Africa has always been at the forefront of shaping global Christianity. Its early adoption of the faith challenges the narrative that Christianity is a Western religion. By celebrating Ethiopia, we reclaim a piece of African identity that colonial histories have often sought to erase.

At BLAM UK, we take immense pride in shining a light on the richness of African cultures. Ethiopia’s Christmas is not just a religious event; it’s a celebration of Black joy, resilience, and ingenuity. It reminds us that our stories, our traditions, and our heritage are to be celebrated, not marginalised.

So, as the festive season unfolds, we invite you to reflect on Ethiopia’s remarkable history. How can we honour the depth and diversity of African contributions to global culture? And how can we ensure these stories remain at the forefront of our collective consciousness?

Let’s celebrate Ethiopia, Africa, and the power of our shared heritage. Merry Christmas or, as they say in Ethiopia, Melkam Ganna!

From Heartfelt Storytelling to Black Girl Magic: How Doechii’s NPR Tiny Desk Performance Redefined Representation, Empowered Dark-Skinned Women, and Made Music History

Doechii’s recent NPR Tiny Desk performance was nothing short of mesmerising—a heartfelt, powerful, and revolutionary moment that left audiences spellbound. Among the standout moments was her soul-stirring performance of Black Girl Memoir, a poignant and deeply personal ode dedicated to Black women. Through her searing lyrics and emotive delivery, Doechii captured her journey of growing up as a dark-skinned girl, transforming her lived experience into a universal anthem of resilience, pride, and celebration.

The Magic of the Tiny Desk Stage

The beauty of NPR’s Tiny Desk series lies in its ability to create intimate, stripped-back performances where artists can connect directly with their audiences.

Doechii took this opportunity to showcase not just her extraordinary talent but also her vulnerability and strength. Performance radiated authenticity, proving once again that she is not just a musician but a storyteller and advocate.

An Ode to Black Women

Black Girl Memoir was the beating heart of Doechii’s set. The song, with its deeply personal lyrics, resonated as a love letter to Black women everywhere. She captured the complexity of navigating the world as a dark-skinned Black girl, balancing pain with pride and turning vulnerability into power.

With every note, Doechii reminded us of the beauty and brilliance of Black women, inviting reflection on the often-overlooked stories of those who bear the dual burdens of racism and colourism. It was a moment of unfiltered truth, delivered with grace and strength.

Representation That Matters

Representation is not just about being seen; it’s about being celebrated in all one’s authenticity. For too long, mainstream media and the music industry have perpetuated Eurocentric beauty standards, sidelining dark-skinned women in favour of lighter-skinned counterparts. Doechii’s performance stood as a bold defiance of these norms, reclaiming space for dark-skinned women to be honoured and uplifted.

Colourism in Music

Colourism has long been a pervasive issue within the music industry. From the early days of jazz and blues, where lighter-skinned performers were often prioritised for stardom, to modern pop and R&B, where darker-skinned artists face immense barriers, this bias is deeply entrenched.

Icons like Nina Simone and Lauryn Hill have spoken openly about their struggles, with Simone famously lamenting how her dark skin and Afrocentric features impacted her career. Even as recent decades have seen progress, the industry still grapples with these prejudices. Doechii’s rise as a dark-skinned Black woman is both a triumph and a reminder of the ongoing need to dismantle these barriers.

A Performance Full of Layers

Doechii’s delivery was nothing short of masterful. Her vocals carried both raw emotion and refined artistry, blending soul, rap, and spoken word into a tapestry that felt deeply personal yet universally resonant. Every lyric was a testament to her journey, every note a celebration of resilience.

Her performance was not just a showcase of her talent but a reclamation of power—a declaration that Black women, in all their shades and complexities, are worthy of celebration and respect.

Reclaiming the Narrative

Doechii’s performance is a landmark moment not just for her career but for the broader movement towards inclusivity in music. She challenges outdated norms and redefines what it means to be a Black woman in the industry.

Her boldness creates ripples far beyond the stage, inspiring a new generation of young girls who see themselves in her.

By sharing her story, Doechii is not only reclaiming her narrative but empowering others to do the same.

Why It Matters

In an industry where dark-skinned women have historically been marginalised, Doechii’s Tiny Desk performance was a powerful act of resistance and representation. It was a reminder of the beauty, talent, and magic that dark-skinned women bring to music and the world at large.

By pouring her heart into Black Girl Memoir and standing unapologetically in her truth, Doechii has created a moment that will be remembered not just as a performance but as a turning point—a call to celebrate and uplift the stories that have too often been silenced.

Doechii’s Tiny Desk was more than a performance; it was a movement, a celebration, and a powerful reminder that Black Girl Magic is not just a phrase—it’s a revolution.

Haka and the Black Struggle: United in Resistance

A powerful moment of protest in Aotearoa (New Zealand) recently captured global attention. Hana-Rawhiti Maipi-Clarke, the youngest Māori MP at just 22 years old, made headlines when she performed the Haka in Parliament while tearing up a copy of the controversial Treaty Principles Bill. Her act of defiance against the bill, introduced by the ACT Party, sparked a collective Haka and became a rallying cry for the protection of Māori rights and sovereignty.

This viral moment is a reminder of the shared legacies of colonial oppression faced by Māori people and Black communities across Africa and the Caribbean. It speaks to the power of cultural pride and unity in the fight against erasure and injustice.

The Treaty of Waitangi and the Controversial Bill

The 1840 Treaty of Waitangi is a foundational document in New Zealand’s history, signed between Māori chiefs and the British Crown. Its core values were intended to protect Māori sovereignty while fostering a relationship between the two groups. However, colonial practices saw the treaty’s promises repeatedly broken, leading to widespread land theft, cultural suppression, and systemic marginalisation of Māori communities.

In recent decades, New Zealand has worked to weave the principles of the treaty into its laws as part of efforts to redress historical wrongs. The Treaty Principles Bill, introduced by the ACT Party, argues for a legal definition of these principles. While some view this as necessary for clarity, critics, including Maipi-Clarke, argue the bill undermines Māori sovereignty and dilutes the treaty’s original intent.

Her protest symbolised the deep mistrust many Indigenous people feel when governments attempt to reinterpret or redefine agreements designed to protect their rights.

Who Are the Māori People and What Is the Haka?

The Māori are the Indigenous people of Aotearoa with a culture that is deeply connected to the land, community, and Te Reo Māori (Māori language). Colonisation significantly disrupted their way of life, leading to ongoing battles for land rights, cultural preservation, and self-determination.

The Haka is a ceremonial dance that embodies unity, strength, and defiance. Traditionally performed by warriors before battle, it has since become a symbol of Māori identity, used to mark significant occasions and to resist oppression. For Māori people, the Haka is not merely a performance—it is a declaration of sovereignty, a connection to their ancestors, and an expression of collective power.

Shared Struggles: How This Relates to the Black Diaspora

The Māori struggle resonates deeply with Black communities across Africa and the Caribbean. Colonisation left an indelible mark on both groups, resulting in:

• The transatlantic slave trade, which stole millions from their homelands.

• The exploitation of land and natural resources.

• Genocide, cultural erasure, and systemic racism that persists today.

Like the Māori, Black communities have fought to reclaim their histories, preserve their cultural traditions, and resist the systems that continue to marginalise them.

How does the Māori struggle inspire movements for justice within Black communities?

Cultural Resistance: A Global Legacy

The Haka is part of a broader history of resistance through cultural pride:

• The Bois Caïman Ceremony (Haiti): A spiritual gathering in 1791 united enslaved Africans, sparking the Haitian Revolution and establishing Haiti as the first free Black republic.

• The Battle of Adwa (Ethiopia): Ethiopian war chants rallied unity and courage, enabling a decisive victory over Italian colonial forces in 1896, a symbol of African resistance to colonisation.

• South African Anti-Apartheid Chants: During the anti-apartheid movement, the rallying cry “Amandla! Awethu!” (“Power! To the People!”) united voices in defiance of systemic oppression.

Each of these moments shows how cultural pride can inspire unity, defiance, and liberation.

The Power of Solidarity

Hana-Rawhiti Maipi-Clarke’s protest and the viral Haka serve as a powerful reminder of the strength found in unity. Across the world, from Māori communities to the African diaspora, marginalised groups have turned to their cultures to resist injustice, reclaim their rights, and honour their ancestors.

This moment speaks to a universal truth: cultural pride is more than a celebration—it is a weapon against erasure and a call to action for justice.

Reclaiming Heritage, Reclaiming Power

The Māori and Black diaspora share histories of resilience in the face of colonial oppression. Their struggles remind us of the importance of preserving cultural heritage, building unity, and standing firm in the fight for justice.

The Haka, like the chants of “Amandla! Awethu!” and the spiritual power of the Bois Caïman ceremony, reminds us that resistance begins with reclaiming who we are. Together, we can honour our past, inspire the present, and build a future rooted in equity and pride.

#BLAMUK #CulturalPride #Haka #BlackDiaspora #Resistance #UnityInDiversity

Racial Empathy Bias: Why the World Turns Away from Sudan’s Pain

Imagine a country where 11.5 million people have been displaced by war, entire communities have been torn apart, and millions are facing hunger. Now, imagine that this country, despite enduring one of the worst humanitarian crises in modern history, is met with near silence from the global media. This is the reality in Sudan.

Why is the world so indifferent to the suffering of Black communities? The answer lies in the deeply entrenched racial empathy bias—a phenomenon where people are less likely to empathise with the pain of Black individuals and communities compared to their White counterparts. This bias, coupled with anti-Blackness and colourism, ensures that crises affecting predominantly Black nations like Sudan are overlooked, underreported, and devalued.

The Invisible Crisis in Sudan

Since the war erupted in Sudan, over 11.5 million people have been displaced, making it the world’s largest displacement crisis. Humanitarian organisations like the UN, UNICEF, and the World Food Program (WFP) have issued alarming reports: 18 million people face food insecurity, with many at risk of starvation. Yet, these staggering figures barely register in global headlines.

Contrast this with the extensive media coverage of conflicts affecting White populations. Western audiences are inundated with stories of war in Ukraine or the Middle East, often accompanied by heartfelt imagery and urgent calls to action. In comparison, Sudan’s pain is muffled, sidelined as just another African tragedy.

Racial Empathy Bias: The Root of the Silence

Racial empathy bias isn’t just an abstract concept—it’s a tangible force shaping how the world engages with suffering. Studies show that people are more likely to feel empathy for those who look like them or belong to dominant cultural groups. For Black communities, this means their pain is not only ignored but actively dismissed.

This bias stems from centuries of colonialism and racism, which have dehumanised Black people and perpetuated the idea that their struggles are less urgent or deserving of compassion. When we fail to empathise, we fail to act—and this failure is devastating for Sudan.

Anti-Blackness and Colourism: Deepening the Divide

The underreporting of Sudan’s crisis is also a reflection of pervasive anti-Blackness and colourism in global narratives. Anti-Blackness is the systemic marginalisation of Black individuals and communities, rooted in a world order that prioritises White lives and experiences.

Colourism, the preference for lighter skin tones even within communities of colour, compounds this issue. The global media often centres narratives involving White skin or those closer to whiteness, reinforcing the idea that darker-skinned individuals—like the majority of Sudan’s population—are less worthy of visibility or compassion. This is why Sudan’s war doesn’t make front-page news, even though the human suffering is unparalleled.

The Consequences of Bias

When the world ignores Sudan, the consequences are catastrophic. Aid organisations struggle to secure funding, leaving millions without food, water, or medical care. International pressure on warring parties is diminished, prolonging the conflict and deepening the humanitarian crisis. Most heartbreakingly, millions of Sudanese people are left to feel that their lives are invisible and their suffering unimportant.

This silence is a form of violence. By turning away from Sudan, the global community reinforces the idea that Black lives don’t matter as much as others—a narrative we must dismantle.

Breaking the Cycle: What Can Be Done

The first step is acknowledging the biases that shape how we engage with global crises. We must confront racial empathy bias, anti-Blackness, and colourism in ourselves, our media, and our institutions. This means amplifying Sudanese voices—both on the ground and in the diaspora—and pushing for more equitable representation in media coverage.

Follow activists and organisations like @londonforsudan, @madaniya.sdg, and @yassmin_a to stay informed and help raise awareness. Demand that media outlets cover Sudan with the same urgency they give to conflicts affecting White populations. Support humanitarian efforts through donations or volunteering, ensuring that Sudanese communities receive the aid they desperately need.

A Call to Action

At BLAM UK, we believe that all lives matter equally, and we stand against the systemic biases that silence Black voices and diminish Black pain. The world cannot continue to turn its back on Sudan—it’s time to break the silence and demand justice for the millions suffering in darkness.

Let’s hold the media accountable. Let’s educate ourselves and others about racial empathy bias and its consequences. Most importantly, let’s remind the world that Sudan’s pain is our collective responsibility.

Because when we turn away, we choose complicity. And when we act, we choose humanity.

What Does Kemi Badenoch Really Mean for Black Britain?

In an unprecedented moment, Kemi Badenoch stands as the first Black leader of a major UK political party—a milestone, yes, but not the triumph some might celebrate it as. Instead, it serves as a wake-up call for Black communities and allies in Britain. Is this a victory for true representation, or just a convenient facade to suppress authentic Black voices by promoting someone who won’t challenge the system?

To understand what Badenoch’s rise truly signifies, we must ask: is she here to break down barriers or to quietly fortify them? It’s a question not just of personality but of purpose, strategy, and legacy.

The Empire Has Always Had Black Administrators

Professor Kehinde Andrews, a leading Black radical thinker, warns us of a familiar pattern: “The empire has always relied on Black and Brown administrators to uphold its structures.” What Andrews means is that, historically, the British Empire has often placed Black faces in powerful positions, not to dismantle oppressive systems, but to uphold them. This tactic is as old as colonialism itself.

During Britain’s colonial conquests, Black and Brown figures were strategically positioned in administrative roles, offering the illusion of inclusivity, all the while operating as gatekeepers of the colonial status quo. Whether through collaborators in British-occupied Africa or local administrators in the Caribbean, the empire has consistently used individuals from within the oppressed communities to tighten its grip.

And now, centuries later, here we are: Badenoch’s leadership seemingly reflects this same tactic. Instead of challenging the systems that continue to harm Black communities, she reaffirms them. By ascending to this role, does she carry the mandate to uplift and empower, or merely to pacify and contain? We cannot afford to ignore the real, historical playbook at work here, for her presence in power may, in reality, represent control, not liberation.

Dismissing Colonial Legacy and Denying White Privilege

Kemi Badenoch’s views on Britain’s past paint a troubling picture. She asserts that Britain’s success isn’t tied to its colonial history, dismissing the undeniable roles of exploitation and white privilege in building British wealth.

This stance comforts those who prefer a whitewashed history, where colonial atrocities are minimised or ignored entirely. But for Black communities, this isn’t just uncomfortable; it’s erasure. By sanitising the colonial legacy, Badenoch allows discussions around race, reparations, and historical accountability to fade, thereby protecting those who benefit from this carefully constructed amnesia.

This denial doesn’t serve Black people; it shields the structures and individuals who continue to gain from a legacy of injustice. It is precisely this comfort with silence and omission that allows racial disparities to persist unchecked. For a Black leader to perpetuate this erasure doesn’t represent progress but betrayal. When someone in her position refuses to acknowledge Britain’s bloody path to “greatness,” they signal a loyalty not to Black communities but to those who find solace in a history that absolves them of guilt.

The Comfort of Whitewashed “British Values”

Badenoch’s resistance to acknowledging institutional racism, her vocal opposition to reparations, and her relentless promotion of a selectively whitewashed version of “British values” speak volumes. Her stance has made her a favourite among right-wing figures like Michael Gove, who are keen to sidestep Britain’s colonial legacy. Instead of standing as a reminder of how far we’ve come—or how much further we have to go—her leadership becomes a tool for burying history and insulating Britain from confronting its injustices.

True “British values” should embrace honesty, justice, and accountability. But Badenoch’s approach seems to use those values as a shield against critique, turning them into slogans to dismiss the demands of Black communities rather than principles to advance justice and reconciliation.

Token Representation is Not Progress

As Malcolm X famously declared, “If you stick a knife in my back nine inches and pull it out six inches, there’s no progress. If you pull it all the way out, that’s not progress. The progress is healing the wound that the blow made.” His words remind us that representation alone, especially when it comes without justice or accountability, does not equate to real change. Badenoch’s leadership doesn’t confront or seek to heal; it offers symbols over substance. The knife is still in.

For real progress, we need leaders who challenge, not uphold, systems of oppression. When Black faces are used to reinforce harmful structures, it’s not liberation; it’s control dressed up as diversity. Such leadership is not designed to change society but to keep it comfortably stagnant, insulated from the demands for real equity.

The Fight for True Leadership

Black communities deserve leaders who champion justice, equity, and truth—not those who silence our history, struggles, and aspirations. Leaders like Kemi Badenoch may represent visibility, but they do not represent the radical, transformative progress our communities need and deserve. A true leader stands with us, understanding that progress is not about easing discomfort but about confronting, healing, and reforming the systems that continue to oppress us.

So, let’s not be lulled by symbolic diversity. Real progress comes from those who fight for lasting change, from those who seek to dismantle and rebuild, not from those who uphold a façade that keeps Black communities subdued. As we look ahead, let us be vocal, vigilant, and unyielding in our demand for more than tokenism—for a leadership that seeks not to suppress, but to liberate.

BLAM UK and The Equality Trust Release Groundbreaking Report: Reimagining an Anti-Racist System and Addressing Racial Trauma

BLAM UK, in partnership with The Equality Trust, is proud to announce the release of our latest report, which critically examines what an anti-racist system could look like in the UK. This report delves into the deep-rooted impact of racial trauma, calling for the development of anti-racist therapy that centers the voices and lived experiences of racialised communities.

In this pivotal report, we explore how racial trauma is not only a personal experience but a pressing public health emergency. Black people in the UK face structural inequalities across many sectors, and this report underscores the importance of addressing these through an anti-racist lens. It highlights that Black individuals are 40% more likely to access mental health services via the criminal justice system and are 3.5 times more likely to be detained under the Mental Health Act than their white counterparts.

We ask vital questions about what a truly anti-racist system would entail and provide a comprehensive analysis of how systemic racism fuels these disparities. The report also introduces a new framework for anti-racist therapy, which seeks to empower racialised people by directly addressing the intergenerational trauma that systemic racism perpetuates.

This report marks a critical step in understanding racial trauma, and we urge public health officials, policymakers, and mental health practitioners to take action by embedding anti-racist practices into all areas of society.

Take a minute to read the full report here.

Contact: serena BLAM UK
Email:Serenaxblamuk@gmail.com
Website: https://equalitytrust.org.uk/evidence-base/advancing-anti-racist-therapy-for-racialised-communities/

Discover Hidden Histories: Black Pioneers You’ve Never Heard Of

As we celebrate Black History Month, it’s important to remember that history is often written by those in power, leaving many key figures out of the narrative. While we rightly honour icons like Martin Luther King Jr. and Rosa Parks, there are countless Black individuals whose contributions have shaped society but remain largely forgotten. These unsung heroes, often overlooked by mainstream history, have paved the way for the freedoms and rights we cherish today. It’s time to shine a light on some of these remarkable figures and recognise the impact they’ve had on our collective story.

Olive Morris: The Revolutionary Activist

Olive Morris was a force of nature, a woman who refused to accept injustice and dedicated her life to fighting against racial and gender inequalities in Britain. Born in Jamaica in 1952, she migrated to the UK as a young child and grew up in Brixton, where she became a key figure in the Black British liberation movement.

At just 17, Olive confronted police brutality head-on when she attempted to intervene in the unlawful arrest of Nigerian diplomat Clement Gomwalk. Despite being beaten and arrested herself, this incident marked the beginning of her fierce activism. She went on to co-found the Organisation of Women of African and Asian Descent (OWAAD) and the Brixton Black Women’s Group, both of which fought for the rights of Black women in Britain. Olive’s work didn’t just focus on racial justice, but also on housing rights, squatting, and social justice for the most vulnerable.

Though she tragically died at just 27 from cancer, her legacy continues to inspire. Olive’s name might not be in school history books, but her contributions are undeniable. Her story reminds us that courage doesn’t always make headlines, but it can change the world.

Claudia Jones: The Mother of Notting Hill Carnival

Claudia Jones is often remembered as the “Mother of Notting Hill Carnival,” but her legacy goes far beyond the vibrant celebrations that bring communities together today. Born in Trinidad in 1915, Jones emigrated to the United States, where she became a staunch political activist and communist, fighting for civil rights and against racial segregation. After being deported to the UK in 1955 due to her political activities, she didn’t miss a beat.

Claudia founded the West Indian Gazette, one of the first major Black British newspapers, to provide a voice for the Caribbean community. But perhaps her most lasting contribution was founding the precursor to what we now know as the Notting Hill Carnival. Following the Notting Hill race riots of 1958, a time when racial tensions were at a boiling point, Jones organised an indoor Caribbean carnival as a celebration of West Indian culture and a way to unite people in the face of adversity. Today, Notting Hill Carnival is Europe’s biggest street festival, a vibrant expression of Black joy and culture in the UK.

Jones understood that celebration and resistance often go hand in hand. Through her work, she not only fought against racial oppression but also gave the Black British community a platform to celebrate its culture and contributions to society.

John Blanke: A Royal Trumpeter in Tudor England

If you think Black presence in Britain is a modern phenomenon, think again. John Blanke, a Black trumpeter at the court of Henry VIII, is one of the earliest recorded Black individuals in British history. While little is known about his early life, what we do know is that Blanke was an extraordinary musician who performed at the heart of English royalty in the early 16th century.

Blanke’s image can be seen in the Westminster Tournament Roll, where he is depicted playing the trumpet at a grand royal event. This is one of the few surviving images of a Black person in Tudor England, and it serves as a powerful reminder that Black people have been integral to British society for centuries.

In 1512, John Blanke even petitioned Henry VIII for a pay rise, which was granted — an act that shows both his significance and his confidence in asserting his worth at a time when Black people were often marginalised or enslaved. His story, though brief in historical records, disrupts the notion that Black people were absent from, or peripheral to, British history. Blanke’s presence at the Tudor court highlights the diversity of British society long before the arrival of the Windrush generation.

Septimius Severus: The African Roman Emperor Who Ruled Britain

When we think of Roman emperors, images of Caesar or Augustus often come to mind, but few people know about Septimius Severus, a man of African descent who rose to become one of Rome’s most powerful leaders. Born in Leptis Magna (modern-day Libya) in AD 145, Severus hailed from a wealthy Punic family. His rise through the ranks of the Roman military was swift, and in AD 193, he was proclaimed emperor, becoming the first Roman ruler of African heritage.

Severus’s connection to Britain is particularly significant. He spent the final years of his reign in the British Isles, where he led military campaigns to strengthen Roman control and repair Hadrian’s Wall. His mission was to subdue the rebellious tribes in what is now Scotland and secure Rome’s northern frontier. During his time in Britain, Severus made York (then Eboracum) his base, making him one of the few Roman emperors to rule directly from British soil.

Despite ruling with an iron fist, Severus is remembered for his reforms and efforts to unify the empire, as well as for advancing the legal status of soldiers and non-Roman citizens. His reign brought stability to Rome after a period of civil unrest, and his military campaigns in Britain were some of the most ambitious efforts by a Roman emperor to extend Rome’s influence in the north.

Though Severus died in York in AD 211, his legacy endures, with his sons continuing his dynasty after his death. His story challenges conventional ideas of Roman history and highlights the rich diversity that existed within the ancient empire. Black presence in Britain, as exemplified by Septimius Severus, stretches back millennia, long before the modern era.

Severus’s reign as a Roman emperor of African descent defies the narrow views often presented in Western history. His presence in Britain shows that Black contributions to British history go back much further than many realise, with figures like Severus playing pivotal roles in shaping the country’s past.

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Press Release: Defend Jamila Abdi – Stand Against Racist Prosecutions and State Surveillance

Jamila Abdi is facing an unjust trial that once again highlights the deep-rooted overcriminalisation of Black and Muslim communities in this country. This is not just an attack on Jamila; it is an attack on all of us who resist state harassment and over-policing. As a community, we have a long history of standing up against racist prosecutions and this case is no different.

We must come together, as we did in the Coconut Trial with Marieha Hussain, to ensure Jamila is not yet another victim of a system that criminalises our very existence. Jamila’s case has escalated to the point where the state is determined to prosecute her for what was originally a tweet made in conversation with a mutual friend. The tweet referred to a football player using a term she frequently uses as part of her everyday language as a Black woman. Yet, despite this context, the state has chosen to frame it as malicious communication, twisting the narrative to claim she intended to cause harm, distress, or anxiety.

This level of criminalisation for such minor actions exposes the selective nature of justice in the UK. Racists walk freely on our streets, causing harm and spreading hate, but it’s Jamila – a young Black Muslim woman – who is dragged through the courts for expressing herself online. The very fact that this prosecution is happening shows the priorities of the state: policing Black languages, surveilling marginalised communities, and ensuring the silencing of those who refuse to conform to oppressive standards.

We cannot stand idly by while Jamila’s future is put at risk. A conviction would not only ruin her prospects but also send a chilling message to other Black and Brown people in this country—that any expression of our identity can be weaponised against us.

We must be clear: this prosecution is not in the public interest. It’s an attempt to isolate Jamila and others like her from their community, a tactic to silence resistance. That’s why it’s crucial that we show up. We need more people on the ground, more bodies in the courtroom, more voices speaking out against this injustice. The state thrives on our silence and our absence; we must not give them either.

We know the power we have when we come together. Let’s make sure we’re standing strong for Jamila, just as we’ve done for others who have faced this kind of harassment. This fight is bigger than Jamila—it’s about dismantling the systems of surveillance, racism, and repression that target our communities every day.

Let’s show the state that we will not be intimidated, that our voices will not be silenced, and that we will always defend our own.

Join us in court. Stand with Jamila.

Why Teaching Black History Matters: The Role of BLAM UK in Shaping British Education

October marks Black History Month in the UK, a time when the nation pauses to reflect on the rich and complex histories of African and Afro-Caribbean people. While this month is crucial for amplifying Black narratives, it’s clear that Black history should not be confined to just 31 days. At BLAM UK, we believe that Black history is British history, and it should be embedded throughout the school curriculum all year round.

Why Black History in British Schools?

The British education system has long been criticised for its Eurocentric approach, often leaving Black students disconnected from the curriculum and their peers with limited understanding of Black contributions to society. This is where BLAM UK steps in—to reshape this narrative by ensuring that Black history is integrated into everyday teaching, not just highlighted during Black History Month.

Teaching Black history is more than just an act of inclusion; it’s about correcting historical omissions. It’s about celebrating figures like Mary Seacole and Olaudah Equiano, whose contributions to British society have often been sidelined. More importantly, it allows students to understand the global impact of the African diaspora, from the cultural heritage of African nations to the histories of Black Britain, the Caribbean, and the Americas.

At BLAM UK, we’re committed to making this a reality through our workshops, teacher training programs, and resources. Our mission is simple: to create an education system that reflects the diversity of Britain.

BLAM UK’s Role in Transforming Classrooms

BLAM UK offers a wide range of services to empower educators and institutions to embrace Black narratives:

Teacher Training: We provide bespoke 1-to-1 and group training for teachers, helping them embed Black British cultural heritage, African, and Afro-Caribbean histories into their everyday teaching. Our training isn’t about adding extra burdens on teachers but equipping them with tools to naturally integrate Black narratives across subjects, from literature and history to art and geography.

Anti-Racism in Schools: We support school staff and governors in fostering anti-racism policies and practices. Our training covers best practices for anti-racism, while our assemblies for students focus on racial wellness, creating an environment where all students feel valued and seen.

Workshops & Assemblies: By working directly with schools and teachers, we aim to create learning spaces where Black narratives are not just included but celebrated. As Julie Joyce, Head of Year 9 at Archbishop Tenison School, noted, “The resources and training BLAM UK provided our school were fantastic. It has changed the way we view inclusion of Black narratives in everyday teaching.”

New Tools for a New Era: Global Black Narratives in the Classroom

To further support teachers in their mission to bring Black narratives into the classroom, BLAM UK has created “Global Black Narratives in the Classroom”, a two-part book series published by Routledge. These practical lesson plans, interactive worksheets, and activities are designed to help primary school teachers seamlessly integrate Black history across subjects, all year round.

Our books cover a truly global perspective. Volume 1 focuses on Africa, the Americas, and the Caribbean, while Volume 2 dives into Black Britain and Europe. From exploring Black culture in Great Britain to highlighting Afro-Colombian artefacts and African geophysical contributions, this book brings often-overlooked narratives to the forefront.

Why We Do This

Our work is fueled by a deep commitment to creating a curriculum that reflects the students in our classrooms. We’ve worked with schools across London for over five years, and we’ve seen firsthand that teachers want to do more—they just need the right resources. That’s why we created these books, to give educators the tools they need to weave Black history into the fabric of every lesson.

And we’re not stopping there. BLAM UK also offers corporate anti-racism workshops, helping businesses and organisations understand microaggressions, implicit bias, and how to create a culture of racial wellness in the workplace. From Lancaster University to LUSH, our training is transforming the way workplaces approach race and inclusion.

Beyond Black History Month

Black History Month is important, but it should be just the beginning. At BLAM UK, we envision a future where Black history is taught as an integral part of the British education system, fostering a generation of students who understand and appreciate the full scope of their country’s diverse heritage.

By working with BLAM UK, schools, educators, and businesses alike can make meaningful strides toward a more inclusive and accurate portrayal of history. As we often say—Black history is British history. Let’s teach it like it is.