As part of the Black History Month celebration for 2020, Enfield Caribbean Association (ECA) organised an evening of discussion, on Saturday 31 October at the Millfield entitled the history of Black Activism in the UK.

Due to the pandemic the event went digital, and was streamed live on YouTube.

The evening began with a message of support from Feryal Clark MP for Enfield North. ECA gave a tribute to the co-founder of the ECA, Ms Hyacinth Sandilands who died this year.

The knowledge and ideas shared by each of the speakers was explosive and powerful, drawing on their research and their personal experiences.

Black Lives Matter activist Delia Mattis highlighted the issues black people face and focused on the campaigns unique to Enfield. The resurgence of the Black Lives Matter movement has highlighted the relationship black communities have with the police making headlines around the world. As a result, retired metropolitan police officer, Leroy Logan also joined the panel for the session.

Playwright, novelist and broadcaster, Bonnie Greer, Sir Geoff Palmer, Professor Emeritus in the School of Life Sciences at Heriot-Watt University & human rights activist and actor, playwright and director, Kwame Kwei-Armah also joined the panel remotely. Each gave insightful contributions to the event, which led to an engaging discussion hosted by ECA Chair Oveta McInnis.

One viewer said “We were privileged to be there witnessing this awesome debate.”  The ideas shared by the panel resonated with many of those who tuned in to the event.

Chair Oveta McInnis said, “I was privileged to share an evening of debate with such talented and committed individuals who have and continue to be at the forefront of the fight for equality”.

The event was recorded and is available to view on Millfield Youtube Channel.  @The History of Black Activism in the UK