From Brent Libraries
Sunday 13th October 3pm-6pm at Willesden Green Linrary
Join us at The Library at Willesden Green for a powerful event marking 30 years of South African democracy and the people of Brent who supported the anti-apartheid struggle.
This event is a moment to critically reflect and continue the fight for justice, delving into the ongoing struggles for equality, freedom, and dignity in South Africa and beyond.
Through a blend of radical art, stirring literature, and historical reflection, we will confront the complexities and challenges of a post-apartheid society, highlighting the role of Brent in supporting the anti-apartheid struggle.
Speakers include:
Suresh Kamath, an anti-apartheid activist and former executive of the Anti-Apartheid Movement (ACTSA), who will discuss his role in organizing the Nelson Mandela 70th Birthday Tribute Concert and the 1990 Freedom Concert. Kwaku, a history researcher and founder of BBM/BMC, will speak about his work promoting British Black music and organizing events with South African music and history themes. Prof. Chris Mullard, a sociologist and anti-racism activist, will share insights on race relations, social entrepreneurship, and his involvement with the Notting Hill Carnival. Eugene Skeef FRSA, a South African-born percussionist and Black Consciousness Movement activist, will reflect on his experiences in exile and his contributions to music education and activism.
Xnau Drawings
Decolonisation is firmly foregrounded across the multiple mediums in which artist Garth Erasmus works. He means with intention to unsettle the hegemonic, exclusionary constructions of African and “coloured” identity in the South African context.
This event offers a taster of a forthcoming exhibiton featuring the politically charged Xnau Drawings by Garth which exposes the painful legacies of apartheid and colonialism.
The Woman from Mzanzi
M.L. Hufkie will present her urgent and unapologetic work, Woman from Mzanzi, (published by Livina Press) shedding light on the continued struggles faced by South African women. Her reading will be accompanied by the improvisation of of Barbie Mukoda on flute.
Historical Artifacts
Unveiling rare items from Brent’s direct involvement in the South African anti-apartheid struggle, reminding us that the fight for justice is an international concern.
This is more than just a commemoration of the right for all South Africans to vote in 1994 - it's a call to action in the continuous struggle for equity, diversity and inclusivity. It aligns with Brent Council's Corporate Anti-Racism Action Plan
Engage with the ongoing realities of systemic inequality, hear stories of resistance, and draw inspiration to continue pushing for global justice.
"It always seems impossible until it's done." Nelson Mandela
