Black Women, in History - The Hidden Stories was the theme of Enfield Caribbean Association (ECA) Black History Month celebrations at the Millfield on Saturday 16th October.
The event was kicked off with stories from women of the Windrush Generation. ECA is publishing a book and short documentary which will be released in Spring 2022, which includes the contributions of 20 people, who left Africa and the Caribbean to support the post war rebuilding of the UK. Three female contributors to the book spoke at the event.
Evadney Hamilton came to Britain in 1956 from British Guiana (now known as Guyana). Evadne then travelled to northern Nigeria to teach young girls and open new schools in the region for 27 years. Pauline Isles spoke about her experience travelling from Jamaica to London of the 1960s, having to wear her Sunday best for the journey to arrive at the capital of the British empire. Her journey continued as she eventually became a senior nurse in management in the NHS. Working across the UK, the US, Canada and Jamaica, teaching the next generation of nurses. Lastly, Hyacinth Treasure remembered her humble beginnings in rural Jamaica and the hard work and determination, she endured, particularly the 1960s and 70s that enabled her to build a better life in the UK
During the afternoon, attendees were able to participate in a choice of workshops led by specialists, which included Financial empowerment, Fitness, Mental health & Wellbeing and Women in politics.
The evening concluded with a discussion chaired by ECA chair, Oveta McInnis which included writer and academic Dr Ama Biney; Black Lives Matter Enfield, Delia Mattis; Political analyst, Dorothea Hodge; and writer and broadcaster, Bonnie Greer. The panel showcased and discussed the women who influenced their lives.
Biney and Hodge, both drew our attention to women in history who have made a difference, who have inspired them. Greer encouraged all the audience to seek to learn about our past and present sheroes. Mattis discussed concerns about the planned expansion of the incinerator in Edmonton. She explained why the expanded incinerator will worsen race inequality in the borough.
Chair Oveta McInnis said, "The event was a great success. Attendees were given information that nourished minds that will lead to positive more fulfilling lives.
"Black women remain largely invisible in history. Our event was able to highlight a handful of stories of black women’s resilience, beauty, strength and empowerment."
ECA will release a video of the event that will be available on the ECA website on Monday 26 October. Just bookmark www.enfieldcaribbeanassoc.org.uk.
