Black Equity Organisation (BEO) and Operation Black Vote (OBV) have teamed up to ensure Black voices are front and centre in shaping the future of the UK country.

Both organisations have a mission to empower Black communities through the power of voting. The goal is to ensure that black voices are heard, and influence is felt in shaping the future of UK society. Both organisations suggest the need to hold the government, elected officials, political parties and civil servants accountable to their pre-election manifesto commitments to ensure our communities thrive.

The partnership aims to do this through the framework of its Black Britain’s Mandate, which will be launched in September and will bring the joint priorities to the forefront. BEO and OBV want to shape a modern Britain that works for everyone, no matter where they come from. This is about enforcing real systemic change.

The organisations will be launching online its "Shaping the Future of Black Britain" event on May 7th 2024. This session will be youth-led and chaired by Athian Akec BEO trustee, known for his multi-dimensional work, including speeches, essays, and guest lectures. He's dedicated to providing young people with perspectives to navigate today's challenges. Athian is also well known for his "Beyond Black History Month" series with i-D magazine, his speech in the House of Commons and his essay published by Penguin on the political potential of Black culture.

In this online event, visitors will hear:

• Perspectives from young speakers about the importance of voting and making our voices heard by the next government.
• How BEO, OBV, and our community partners across the UK are working together to ensure Black voices from across the UK will be heard.
• Strategies for involving young Black adults in shaping our future.
• About the voter masterclass
• The importance of a Black Mandate to influence the next government.
• How to participate in the BEO Mandate poll.

Please note that this event will include British Sign Language interpreters to ensure accessibility for all attendees.

The details:

Date: 7th May 2024
Time: 19:00 - 21:00
Location: Online
Register here

This event is just the beginning. Throughout May and June, our Community Hosts from all over the UK will be hosting in-person events and master classes. We will also be hosting targeted online events and running a poll to further understand from Black communities about what matters most to them.

Both organisations are encouraging black citizens to register to vote. The deadline to register to vote for the 2nd May elections is Tuesday 16th April 2024.

In 2022, 28% of Black voters in Great Britain were not registered to vote. That’s a quarter of the Black population not having their voice heard and not exercising their democratic right to vote. Tuesday 16th April also marks National Voter Registration Day led by My Life My Say, a youth-led, non-partisan movement on a mission to encourage young people to participate in democracy, and get every single young person voting.

BEO and OBV are encouraging every spectrum in the  black community to be part of something meaningful. Save the date and join them at the online launch event.