Today in Focus
Uncovering Black British history beyond London
Apr 25, 2025
Lanre Bakare, The Guardian's arts and culture correspondent and author of 'We Were There,' dives deep into Black British history beyond London. He discusses the vibrant stories from places like Bradford, unearthing contributions to the textile industry and the community's rich cultural identity. The conversation highlights the impact of Thatcherism on Black lives and activism, using George Lindo's wrongful conviction as a powerful example of systemic injustice. Bakare also critiques media narratives and celebrates grassroots efforts that challenge racial stereotypes.
31:09
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Quick takeaways
- Lanre Bakare advocates for a broader understanding of Black British history that includes diverse contributions from regions outside London, highlighting cities like Bradford and Liverpool.
- The podcast illustrates how the cultural spaces, particularly the Reno nightclub, significantly shaped Black British music and community during the Thatcher years, fostering resilience and solidarity amidst discrimination.
Deep dives
Black British History Beyond London
The podcast emphasizes that traditional narratives of Black British history tend to focus on significant events primarily in London, such as the Windrush docking in 1948 or the Notting Hill riots in 1958. However, the guest, Lanre Bakery, argues that this perspective neglects the rich and diverse contributions from Black communities throughout the UK, including cities like Bradford and Liverpool. He advocates for a broader understanding that encapsulates the history of Black populations across different regions, which have also significantly shaped British culture. The work aims to illuminate these overlooked stories and challenge the preconceived notion that Black British history is confined to London.
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