To commemorate Black History Month myself and several guests had the pleasure of attending a special panel talk. Black Sheroes: Journey to Identity.
Highlighting the herstories of Black Women in the UK.
The event, a collaborative effort by Lon-Art Sheroes and Tower Hamlets Council – delved into the untold experiences of Black British Women and the journey of their evolving identities as part of the African Diaspora.
Held at the Restless Beings Root25 venue in Bow, the gorgeous decor complemented the intimacy of the conversation perfectly. The panel consisted of Carolyn Baguma, Burungi Kawooya and Elizabeth Dawotola. And was moderated by Louise Akorfi. They offered vulnerable insights and anecdotal revelations on their personal journey.
Those in attendance were privy to conversations dissecting the common challenges Black Women face, existing in predominantly white spaces. Representation or lack thereof in media, particularly before the Internet age.
How they honour their native cultures and themselves. Whilst simultaneously attempting to dispelling outdated narratives and stereotypes.
The evening festivities kicked off with a performance of music and poetry by Officially Corazon. And the night concluded with a research presentation by Carolyn Amulinde on African Diaspora identities, highlighting the intersectional experience of Black British Identity’s and allowing the audience to participate.
I for one really enjoyed the BHM panel talk and would love for there to be a continued, coordinated effort to promote these spaces. Both physically and digitally.
Corazon Baguma
Culture Asylum