FabSwingers.com forum: A fabulous Sunday Mass- Black History Month special. Tm

By (user no longer on site) OP
over a year ago

Good morning my angels

and demons

and happy Sunday!

A day of reflection I always find, before the dreaded first day of labour kicks off again.

So, it’s October, Black History Month, and I’m grateful for the many people that have lived before me and now that continue to be positive drivers of change. I’ll go with Stormzy today because Mel made me do it.

Anyway, what Black Brits are you grateful for today?

(I don’t expect this to be a long thread but bite me)

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

You OP.

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By (user no longer on site) OP
over a year ago

"You OP.

That’s sweet but I’m not deserving of a mention on this thread, believe me

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

Love this. The receptionist at my Gym who always greets me with the biggest smile and is super friendly, she also has the coolest hair

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By *istyPeaksCouple
over a year ago

braintree

I think John Barnes gets an honourable mention.

There’s also my old tutor from a couple of years ago who gave me the confidence to ask “stupid” race related questions. Sometimes we live in fear of asking things in case we look racist, but then end up ignorant instead. So thank you Gordon

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By *eroLondonMan
over a year ago

Covent Garden

May I enter and take a leaflet? †

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By *r Black 85Man
over a year ago

nottingham

Cheating slightly but gotta go with my Grandparents.

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

Kwasi Kwartang, the most senior black politician so far in British history. And a

to the Daily Mirror who marked BHM by publishing a story about KK with the picture of another black man.

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By *naswingdressWoman
over a year ago

Manchester (she/her)

Shamefully, I don't know enough about Black history in the UK. But we're all richer for an inclusive history, understanding the contribution of all of us (including the destruction wrought by the cultural majority).

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

Admirable post here OP.

As they say: We study history, so we don't make the same mistakes again.

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By *agerMorganMan
over a year ago

Canvey Island

Dr Harold Moody.

Smashed through & campaigned on civil rights as a Physicist. Was also the first on scene after a raid during the Blitz.

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By *ea monkeyMan
over a year ago

Manchester (he/him)

As much as it might be a touch bittersweet and intersectional, mine is Justin Fashanu.

The first openly gay footballer who had to deal with racist and homophobic abuse for his whole short life.

Yes he took his own life but he opened the door on so much trauma and opened many eyes to what was needed and still is now.

His bravery, honesty and courage is a beacon

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By (user no longer on site) OP
over a year ago

"As much as it might be a touch bittersweet and intersectional, mine is Justin Fashanu.

The first openly gay footballer who had to deal with racist and homophobic abuse for his whole short life.

Yes he took his own life but he opened the door on so much trauma and opened many eyes to what was needed and still is now.

His bravery, honesty and courage is a beacon"

His story is so important. I’ve known about it a while and seen a few bits in the Queer Britain museum in London.

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By (user no longer on site) OP
over a year ago

"Love this. The receptionist at my Gym who always greets me with the biggest smile and is super friendly, she also has the coolest hair

Bet she’s great.

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By (user no longer on site) OP
over a year ago

"Shamefully, I don't know enough about Black history in the UK. But we're all richer for an inclusive history, understanding the contribution of all of us (including the destruction wrought by the cultural majority). "

I think you’d love Stuart Hall.

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By (user no longer on site) OP
over a year ago

"May I enter and take a leaflet? †"

You may

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

"You OP.

That’s sweet but I’m not deserving of a mention on this thread, believe me

I concur. Op, you’re a good man.

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

I thought black history month was In February

Did it change?

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By (user no longer on site) OP
over a year ago

"I thought black history month was In February

Did it change? "

In the UK I don’t know that it’s ever been in February.

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By (user no longer on site) OP
over a year ago

"You OP.

That’s sweet but I’m not deserving of a mention on this thread, believe me

I concur. Op, you’re a good man.

If you think I’m good you’d love my idols

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By (user no longer on site) OP
over a year ago

"I think John Barnes gets an honourable mention.

Cheers to Gordon.

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By (user no longer on site) OP
over a year ago

"Cheating slightly but gotta go with my Grandparents. "

That’s real

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By (user no longer on site) OP
over a year ago

"Kwasi Kwartang, the most senior black politician so far in British history. And a

to the Daily Mirror who marked BHM by publishing a story about KK with the picture of another black man.

How very on brand of the mirror. Not their first offence.

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By (user no longer on site) OP
over a year ago

"Admirable post here OP.

As they say: We study history, so we don't make the same mistakes again. "

And yet…

Kidding no you’re right

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By (user no longer on site) OP
over a year ago

[Removed by poster at 02/10/22 09:33:59]

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By (user no longer on site) OP
over a year ago

"Dr Harold Moody.

Smashed through & campaigned on civil rights as a Physicist. Was also the first on scene after a raid during the Blitz. "

Thanks JM! A name I’m unfamiliar with but will check out

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

Chris eaubank & nigel Ben grew up watching them 2

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

"I thought black history month was In February

Did it change?

In the UK I don’t know that it’s ever been in February. "

Ah my mistake then, I sometimes forget Reddit isn’t a mainly UK based website

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By *tephanjMan
over a year ago

Kettering

Here was me thinking history is history and didn't come in colours, just mostly blood red

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By (user no longer on site) OP
over a year ago

"Here was me thinking history is history and didn't come in colours, just mostly blood red"

Well, welcome to Black History month 2022

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By *naswingdressWoman
over a year ago

Manchester (she/her)

"Admirable post here OP.

As they say: We study history, so we don't make the same mistakes again.

And yet…

Kidding no you’re right

"Those who don't study history are doomed to repeat it"

Those who do study history are doomed to facepalm repeatedly

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By (user no longer on site) OP
over a year ago

"Chris eaubank & nigel Ben grew up watching them 2"

I know them both.

Love Chris. He’s become a walking meme too.

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

You

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By (user no longer on site) OP
over a year ago

"I thought black history month was In February

Did it change?

In the UK I don’t know that it’s ever been in February.

Ah my mistake then, I sometimes forget Reddit isn’t a mainly UK based website

I don’t think that people have always done enough to acknowledge BHM in this country but that’s a convo for another thread. Maybe even another site.

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By (user no longer on site) OP
over a year ago

"Admirable post here OP.

As they say: We study history, so we don't make the same mistakes again.

And yet…

Kidding no you’re right

"Those who don't study history are doomed to repeat it"

Those who do study history are doomed to facepalm repeatedly "

People that not history are basically constantly watching the news like the Leo Di caprio meme from once upon a time in Hollywood or something.

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By (user no longer on site) OP
over a year ago

"You

You’re going to make me blush.

Can Black people blush?

Kidding

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

"You OP.

That’s sweet but I’m not deserving of a mention on this thread, believe me

I concur. Op, you’re a good man.

If you think I’m good you’d love my idols

Some of mine are pretty awesome.

Michael Jackson is my first thought, absolutely wonderful talent and, I am an all time number 1 fan of his.

Nelson Mandela and Martin Luther King for the impact they had in me when I was younger.

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By *ocopops1962Man
over a year ago

Glasgow / Lindon

Jazzy B for me .

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By *aliceWoman
over a year ago

Birmingham

Stella Dadzie, Benjamin Zephaniah, Munroe Bergdorf

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By *estLondonDeepMan
over a year ago

London

Nice post.

I'm going for Bernie Grant who was a big influence growing up and Sade.

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By *tephanjMan
over a year ago

Kettering

I'm sorry but history should not come in colours. It's all our history

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By (user no longer on site) OP
over a year ago

"I'm sorry but history should not come in colours. It's all our history "

Happy BLACK History month.

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By *eroLondonMan
over a year ago

Covent Garden

Black Dogging Blankets™. Lest we forget. Thank you for this thread, Vicår †

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By *naswingdressWoman
over a year ago

Manchester (she/her)

"I'm sorry but history should not come in colours. It's all our history

Happy BLACK History month.

When we stop white washing history, I hope there'll be less need.

We need to hear the stories of everyone. We are all equally valid.

White people have the rest of the year - and whatever attempts they make to shout over others.

We are poorer for the sanitisation of history, to cater to the feelings of the fragile majority.

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By *ittleMyWoman
over a year ago

Stockport

Floella Benjamin for being an absolute joy

My daughter and I were in Liverpool yesterday and we visited the Sl@very Museum at the Albert Dock. Very moving and sobering.

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

"Admirable post here OP.

As they say: We study history, so we don't make the same mistakes again.

And yet…

Kidding no you’re right

"Those who don't study history are doomed to repeat it"

Those who do study history are doomed to facepalm repeatedly "

I like this ^^^

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By *igGs19Woman
over a year ago

Castle Douglas

Kim Oliver and Jumoke Abdullahi who created "Triple Cripples".

I remain acutely aware of my ignorance and my privilege, but do try to spend time here and there to educate myself, I found out about these ladies recently.

They are two disabled black women, and the platform is for women, femmes & non-binary POC, living with disabilities. Pretty exceptional women, striving for change. Their platform provides a space and a voice for these people who have not only been marginalised by their colour, but even further by their disabilities.

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By *naswingdressWoman
over a year ago

Manchester (she/her)

"Kim Oliver and Jumoke Abdullahi who created "Triple Cripples".

I remain acutely aware of my ignorance and my privilege, but do try to spend time here and there to educate myself, I found out about these ladies recently.

Oh wow

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

"Floella Benjamin for being an absolute joy

My daughter and I were in Liverpool yesterday and we visited the Sl@very Museum at the Albert Dock. Very moving and sobering."

I actually think every school should visit that particular museum as part of uk history lessons.

There was zero content about that in any history lesson I took.

If you're in Liverpool check it out. Very interesting.

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By *naswingdressWoman
over a year ago

Manchester (she/her)

"Floella Benjamin for being an absolute joy

My daughter and I were in Liverpool yesterday and we visited the Sl@very Museum at the Albert Dock. Very moving and sobering.

I actually think every school should visit that particular museum as part of uk history lessons.

There was zero content about that in any history lesson I took.

If you're in Liverpool check it out. Very interesting.

There is a widespread failure, I think, to teach children a truly balanced view of our history. I certainly did not learn of the atrocities committed against indigenous Australians in my Australian schools. (I learned about them in church)

(I know that indigenous Australians absolutely count themselves as Blak - what banner they fall under for the purposes of Black History Month I'm not sure)

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

Is black history month for any person of colour? Or African dissent only?

I feel lots of none white countries played huge rolls in the countries development, India being a huge one, but I dunno if they are included.

If they are, my guy is Gandhi. Stood up against the British and is the first person I think of when I think of protests

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

"Floella Benjamin for being an absolute joy

My daughter and I were in Liverpool yesterday and we visited the Sl@very Museum at the Albert Dock. Very moving and sobering.

I actually think every school should visit that particular museum as part of uk history lessons.

There was zero content about that in any history lesson I took.

If you're in Liverpool check it out. Very interesting.

(I know that indigenous Australians absolutely count themselves as Blak - what banner they fall under for the purposes of Black History Month I'm not sure)"

I can believe that yep.

Most of my knowledge of the history of indigenous Australians has been through documentaries by John Pilger.

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

"Is black history month for any person of colour? Or African dissent only?

I feel lots of none white countries played huge rolls in the countries development, India being a huge one, but I dunno if they are included.

If they are, my guy is Gandhi. Stood up against the British and is the first person I think of when I think of protests "

Likewise, you won't be taught about British colonialism.

- Even if you do a degree in history.

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

"Is black history month for any person of colour? Or African dissent only?

I feel lots of none white countries played huge rolls in the countries development, India being a huge one, but I dunno if they are included.

If they are, my guy is Gandhi. Stood up against the British and is the first person I think of when I think of protests

Likewise, you won't be taught about British colonialism.

- Even if you do a degree in history."

I actually learned about both in secondary school weirdly enough

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By *naswingdressWoman
over a year ago

Manchester (she/her)

"Floella Benjamin for being an absolute joy

My daughter and I were in Liverpool yesterday and we visited the Sl@very Museum at the Albert Dock. Very moving and sobering.

I actually think every school should visit that particular museum as part of uk history lessons.

There was zero content about that in any history lesson I took.

If you're in Liverpool check it out. Very interesting.

(I know that indigenous Australians absolutely count themselves as Blak - what banner they fall under for the purposes of Black History Month I'm not sure)

I can believe that yep.

Most of my knowledge of the history of indigenous Australians has been through documentaries by John Pilger."

I got deeply involved in the movement to seek an apology for the Stolen Generation when I was ten.

Part of the British, Australian, and New Zealand movement to "smooth the pillow of a dying race" (origins of quote not entirely certain, but has been used about both ATSI Australians and Maori people). One of the prongs of the genocide committed, taking away children for generations.

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By *abioMan
over a year ago

Newcastle and Gateshead

" I’ll go with Stormzy today because Mel made me do it.

Anyway, what Black Brits are you grateful for today?

(I don’t expect this to be a long thread but bite me)

The stormzy video is so clever because you have to watch the video many many times to get all the references, especially when he basically brings out the black British cultural avengers (I can’t take credit for that line but it’s so true) and gives them all the love they richly deserve….

Basically just start with Mary seacole And start working forward from there!

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

Akala

Benjamin Zephaniah

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By *abioMan
over a year ago

Newcastle and Gateshead

But if you want the names of people you might not know….

Roy Hackett and Paul Stephenson for their roles in the Bristol bus boycott

Claudia jones for organising the first ever Notting Hill carnival

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By *ickshawedCouple
over a year ago

Wolverhampton

Paulette Wilson and all the others who went public with their stories about the government wrongly trying to deport them after living in the UK since childhood.

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

The great writer CLR James, his book The Black Jacobians is a seminal work on anti colonialism.

Also his nephew Darcus Howe, a fine journalist and documentary maker.

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By *emorefridaCouple
over a year ago

La la land

Skin from Skunk Anansie. I've loved her attitude to life since my teenage years. She fronted a alternative band, back when it wasn't as common as now. Has openly spoken about how racism and her sexuality has affected her. She's unapologetically her and uses her platform to help others. Probably not the most recognisable but the one that had impacted my life the most.

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By *abioMan
over a year ago

Newcastle and Gateshead

Also…. If in today’s media and cultural place you reach the status of “uncle” and no one bats an eyelid then you know you are doing right… so take a bow “uncle Ian” and “uncle Trevor”

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By *ohn KanakaMan
over a year ago

Not all that North of North London

"As much as it might be a touch bittersweet and intersectional, mine is Justin Fashanu.

The first openly gay footballer who had to deal with racist and homophobic abuse for his whole short life.

Yes he took his own life but he opened the door on so much trauma and opened many eyes to what was needed and still is now.

His bravery, honesty and courage is a beacon"

This is exactly why I was going to say and for the same reasons

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

"Good morning my angels

and demons

and happy Sunday!

A day of reflection I always find, before the dreaded first day of labour kicks off again.

Anyway, what Black Brits are you grateful for today?

(I don’t expect this to be a long thread but bite me)

I have a few all footballers.

Robbie Earle, he was cracking player for PVFC, he was a local lad who played for us and we loved him.

Mark Bright for constantly calling Staffordshire God's country and being another local lad who played for Vale.

Darren Beckford who was my favourite player as a boy, by his own words I was his number one fan as I asked for his autograph every game. Fun fact when we bought him from Man City the fans were putting money in a bucket to help raise the money to buy him.

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By *olly_chromaticTV/TS
over a year ago

Stockport

"Black Dogging Blankets™. Lest we forget. Thank you for this thread, Vicår †

Dogging Blanket™ also available in other shades that white colonial europeans exploited through the centuries...

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By *istyPeaksCouple
over a year ago

braintree

I’ll add Ian Wright as well, but I’m also saving him for a sexism thread. He’s such a legend.

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By *ealthy_and_HungMan
over a year ago

Princes Risborough, Luasanne, Alderney

Betty Campbell

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By (user no longer on site) OP
over a year ago

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By *istyPeaksCouple
over a year ago

braintree

See - it’s a long thread

As it should be. I’ve got lots of names & stories to be reading up on from here. After perving obviously

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By *inky_couple2020Couple
over a year ago

North West

Please can I diverge and pick a black American lady? Please can I pick Harriet Tubman? I was reminded of this absolutely immense lady because there was a film on the tellybox the other night. I intended to go to bed, but I just HAD to see the end. Harriet Tubman was the absolute bees knees.

I want to also pick Doreen Lawrence, but she is technically Jamaican

Hmmmmmmm, my Brit would be Walter Tull

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By *eroLondonMan
over a year ago

Covent Garden

Well, I would like to go somewhat leftfield and nominate someone unheard of and unheralded:

Nurse Beverley, who sat with me at all hours giving me comfort in the Neonatal ICU, keeping vigil over my newborn. And she always shared her mother's Jerk Chicken!

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By *inky_couple2020Couple
over a year ago

North West

"Well, I would like to go somewhat leftfield and nominate someone unheard of and unheralded:

Nurse Beverley, who sat with me at all hours giving me comfort in the Neonatal ICU, keeping vigil over my newborn. And she always shared her mother's Jerk Chicken!

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By *istyPeaksCouple
over a year ago

braintree

"Well, I would like to go somewhat leftfield and nominate someone unheard of and unheralded:

Nurse Beverley, who sat with me at all hours giving me comfort in the Neonatal ICU, keeping vigil over my newborn. And she always shared her mother's Jerk Chicken!

Don’t know how to do a heart but this.

All of the heroes are normal every day folk x

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By *idnight RamblerMan
over a year ago

Pershore

I'm a huge admirer of Lennox Lewis. A great, if underrated champion, yet modest and humble.

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By (user no longer on site) OP
over a year ago

[Removed by poster at 02/10/22 12:51:35]

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By (user no longer on site) OP
over a year ago

"Is black history month for any person of colour? Or African dissent only?

I feel lots of none white countries played huge rolls in the countries development, India being a huge one, but I dunno if they are included.

If they are, my guy is Gandhi. Stood up against the British and is the first person I think of when I think of protests

Black history month is about Black people and out history I think.

Our*

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By *ou only live onceMan
over a year ago

London

"Skin from Skunk Anansie. I've loved her attitude to life since my teenage years. She fronted a alternative band, back when it wasn't as common as now. Has openly spoken about how racism and her sexuality has affected her. She's unapologetically her and uses her platform to help others. Probably not the most recognisable but the one that had impacted my life the most."

That voice! Oh my. And as a bit of a 90s indie kid, how nice it was to have some non-white faces in bands I liked. There weren't many, but continuing on the same theme I'd add David McAlmont and - a bit later - Kele to the list.

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By *ranny-CrumpetWoman
over a year ago

The Town by The Cross

Too many to mention but I want to allow at least ONE bloke in because he's pretty special .....

James Clarke

Mary Seacole

Evelyn Dove

Lilian Bader

Claudia Jones

Margaret Busby

Diane Abbot

Connie Mark

Princess Ademola

Maybe another bloke then ...

Ignatius Sancho

Olaudah Equiano

I'll let Benjamin Zephania and Levi Tefari in two ...... having seen and heard them first hand

Oh and shit......... Akala......

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By *ou only live onceMan
over a year ago

London

"I'm sorry but history should not come in colours. It's all our history "

You're right, mate - it's your history too. Celebrate it! Having one month where the focus is on a particular element of history doesn't eradicate everything else, but allows some lesser known stories/people to come to the fore (not that it's right they are lesser known, of course). Can't be a bad thing. For example, in BHM one might hear a bit more about Mary Seacole rather than Florence Nightingale. Both amazing women, but I can bet which one most people have heard of...

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

"I'm sorry but history should not come in colours. It's all our history

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By *r Black 85Man
over a year ago

nottingham

For Cinnamon Flame

I'm going for Mitch Flako, who was a youth worker at my local adventure playground as well as a member of the punk band "Hagar the womb". Back in the day there were not many black punks around and some 40 years later he is still playing in bands and a punk for life. As a young adult I was always bumping into him at gigs and events and later in life I became a youth worker too.

Also Bayard Rustin (not British, I know) who helped plan the march on Washington, campaigned for civil rights but still suffered discrimination from his peers due to his sexuality. He is often overlooked.

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By *aizyWoman
over a year ago

west midlands

Benjamin Zephania, I still remember when he came to my school and read some of his poems, a really nice man who had infinite patience with us and our questions.

And Willard Wigan, his eye of a needle and the head of a pin micro miniature sculptures are amazing.

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

Walter Tull - not only the first black player for Spurs, he gave up his career for the war.

He was the first African-Caribbean mixed heritage man to be commissioned as an infantry officer in the British Army and died while leading an attack. He was recommended for the military cross, however it was never awarded.

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By *istyPeaksCouple
over a year ago

braintree

"I'm sorry but history should not come in colours. It's all our history

Technically nothing should historically have been about colour, but it was. So now we all have to backtrack and admit to ourselves that it was, sometimes still is and shouldn’t be. Until us white folk admit that dirty secret to ourselves.. then history won’t stay in the past.

I’m expecting a massive back lash for this one.

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By *rispyDuckMan
over a year ago

Chinese Takeaway near you

Barack Obama

need it say more

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By *ranny-CrumpetWoman
over a year ago

The Town by The Cross

Is it possible to keep this thread as a list of honours rather than the odd attempt to question it?

Many thanks.

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By *inky_couple2020Couple
over a year ago

North West

"Barack Obama

need it say more"

Is he British?!

Nah, it's okay. He'd be on my list too!

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By *istyPeaksCouple
over a year ago

braintree

"Is it possible to keep this thread as a list of honours rather than the odd attempt to question it?

Many thanks."

Apologies

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By *ranny-CrumpetWoman
over a year ago

The Town by The Cross

"Is it possible to keep this thread as a list of honours rather than the odd attempt to question it?

Many thanks.

Apologies

x Thank you bigger person x

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

Lemm Cisay, great poet, amazing life story.

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By *ou only live onceMan
over a year ago

London

"Is it possible to keep this thread as a list of honours rather than the odd attempt to question it?

Many thanks.

Apologies

For what it's worth, I don't think you were the one "questioning" it, but responding to someone who did (as did I), so not sure you should be apologising. My tuppence worth anyway.

But GC is right this is about celebration so I'm going to add Joan Armatrading. I can't claim to be a superfan, but 'Love and Affection' alone is an all-time favourite!

I would have said Ian Wright, too, as a childhood hero, but he's been mentioned. But I'll add Michael Thomas to the footballer roll-call for THAT goal and making 10-year old me about as happy as I could be!

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By *istyPeaksCouple
over a year ago

braintree

Lenny Henry. Looking back he said things a younger me didn’t really understand, but that was the point I think. He gently introduced a culture to the unsuspecting British public. So many comedians now still follow a lot of his routine formula.

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

David Olusoga. I've always loved British history TV programmes and his productions have added a depth of awareness I was never exposed to at school.

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

"Benjamin Zephania, I still remember when he came to my school and read some of his poems, a really nice man who had infinite patience with us and our questions.

And Willard Wigan, his eye of a needle and the head of a pin micro miniature sculptures are amazing."

My goodness I forgot about Willard wigan.

-Look him up if you haven't heard of his work. An absolute fucking genius.

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By (user no longer on site) OP
over a year ago

Adding Stuart Hall, Paul Gilroy and Kehinde Andrews for the sociologists amongst us. The work and research they’ve done has made many a radical.

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By *inky_couple2020Couple
over a year ago

North West

"Lemm Cisay, great poet, amazing life story.

Ooooooooo yes, great shout and a very, very nice chap indeed. I've met him through work.

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

"Lemm Cisay, great poet, amazing life story.

Ooooooooo yes, great shout and a very, very nice chap indeed. I've met him through work. "

Ah wow, lucky you ! I've seen him reading poetry a few times. His Desert island discs is well worth a listen.

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

"Good morning my angels

and demons

and happy Sunday!

A day of reflection I always find, before the dreaded first day of labour kicks off again.

Anyway, what Black Brits are you grateful for today?

(I don’t expect this to be a long thread but bite me)

Hi, perhaps not so much history i guess, more related to media to be honest, so this addition to the thread might be slightly off the mark, but Trevor Mcdonald is worthy of a mention perhaps? We remember him first appearing on the ITV news probably four decades ago now, and he's stayed the course and even though he doesn't read the news anymore, he's still on our tv's doing documentaries and has interviewed some scary and downright crazy people in the world! His calm manner and professional non-biased approach is an example to everyone, as we all know, some of the well known 'interviewers' these days leave a lot to be desired!

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By *inky_couple2020Couple
over a year ago

North West

"Lemm Cisay, great poet, amazing life story.

Ooooooooo yes, great shout and a very, very nice chap indeed. I've met him through work.

Ah wow, lucky you ! I've seen him reading poetry a few times. His Desert island discs is well worth a listen."

Lemn S was brought up in childrens homes and a family home awfully close to where we live.

He's a local....

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

"Lemm Cisay, great poet, amazing life story.

Ooooooooo yes, great shout and a very, very nice chap indeed. I've met him through work.

Ah wow, lucky you ! I've seen him reading poetry a few times. His Desert island discs is well worth a listen.

Lemn S was brought up in childrens homes and a family home awfully close to where we live.

He's a local...."

Yes, his childhood story is heart breaking. And of course it's Lemn Sissay, my phone sends apologies.

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By *atnip make me purrWoman
over a year ago

Reading

Baroness Lawrence

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

Malcolm X

one of my deepest inspiration

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By *ealthy_and_HungMan
over a year ago

Princes Risborough, Luasanne, Alderney

"Malcolm X

one of my deepest inspiration "

i'm pretty sure Mal wasn't a Brit as was asked in the opening post

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

"Malcolm X

one of my deepest inspiration

i'm pretty sure Mal wasn't a Brit as was asked in the opening post"

So what ? I wanted to write so I did

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By *ealthy_and_HungMan
over a year ago

Princes Risborough, Luasanne, Alderney

"Malcolm X

one of my deepest inspiration

i'm pretty sure Mal wasn't a Brit as was asked in the opening post

So what ? I wanted to write so I did "

and the op asked for Brits we are grateful for and and i told you that

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

"Malcolm X

one of my deepest inspiration

i'm pretty sure Mal wasn't a Brit as was asked in the opening post

So what ? I wanted to write so I did

and the op asked for Brits we are grateful for and and i told you that

You have the small report button at the bottom right of this window, please click on it and report me for writing an American figure in a thread that asked for British figures.

Many thanks.

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By *ealthy_and_HungMan
over a year ago

Princes Risborough, Luasanne, Alderney

Bill Morris

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By *ealthy_and_HungMan
over a year ago

Princes Risborough, Luasanne, Alderney

Roy Hackett, Owen Henry, Audley Evans and Prince Brown

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By *ranny-CrumpetWoman
over a year ago

The Town by The Cross

Prince

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

Over half a million black troops that fought for Britain in WW2 despite facing heavy racism both back home and on the battle field

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By *ealthy_and_HungMan
over a year ago

Princes Risborough, Luasanne, Alderney

Elizabeth Anionwu

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By *ehindHerEyesCouple
over a year ago

SomewhereOnlyWeKnow

Rose Hudson-Wilkin, first black British woman bishop and the first female Chaplain to the Speaker of the House of Commons.

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By *ealthy_and_HungMan
over a year ago

Princes Risborough, Luasanne, Alderney

Asquith Xavier

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

I've a huge soft spot for Lenny Henry. Gary Younge is ex-Guardian - always looked forward to his columns. Marcus Rashford.

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

I like lenny henry cos he made me get a red nose as a kid makes me laugh and also tested the premier in beds before i went shagging in them

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

Always loved Daley Thompson. Brilliant athlete and a strong character who follows his own path.

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By *eroLondonMan
over a year ago

Covent Garden

Alexandre Dumas.

The French, and the wider literary community, tend to forget his black roots. Apologies, he wasn't British but I enjoy his works.

#TheCountOfMonteCristo

#TheThreeMusketeers

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By *ealthy_and_HungMan
over a year ago

Princes Risborough, Luasanne, Alderney

Frank Bailey

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By *os19Man
over a year ago

Edmonton

As a football fan I would like to mention Viv Anderson who is the first black player to represent England in a full international and Paul Ince who was the first black player to captain England in a full international.Two other players who should also be mentioned for years it was assumed that Laurie Cunningham was the first black player to play for England at any level when he played a England B game in 1978 but it now maybe Benjamin Odeje who played for England schoolboys in the early 70’s.We are now at a stage where in the starting 11 we may well have more black players starting than white if you had told me that in 1979 when I was 11 years old and Viv Anderson became the first black player to win a full international cap I would have thought you crazy.

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By *aomilatteCouple
over a year ago

Midlands

"As a football fan I would like to mention Viv Anderson who is the first black player to represent England in a full international and Paul Ince who was the first black player to captain England in a full international.Two other players who should also be mentioned for years it was assumed that Laurie Cunningham was the first black player to play for England at any level when he played a England B game in 1978 but it now maybe Benjamin Odeje who played for England schoolboys in the early 70’s.We are now at a stage where in the starting 11 we may well have more black players starting than white if you had told me that in 1979 when I was 11 years old and Viv Anderson became the first black player to win a full international cap I would have thought you crazy."

Also Cyrille Regis who was known by our family. He played in the days when bananas would be thrown on the pitch, he never reacted and always stayed calm. His only reaction would often be to score. A legend and a Gentleman

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By *rolicUsCouple
over a year ago

Alluringly mysterious

"Lemm Cisay, great poet, amazing life story.

Ooooooooo yes, great shout and a very, very nice chap indeed. I've met him through work.

Ah wow, lucky you ! I've seen him reading poetry a few times. His Desert island discs is well worth a listen.

Lemn S was brought up in childrens homes and a family home awfully close to where we live.

He's a local....

Yes, his childhood story is heart breaking. And of course it's Lemn Sissay, my phone sends apologies."

I came on to mention Lemn. Watched him recently on a literary festival. Just jaw droppingly awful and a remarkable man.

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By *mooth Operator 07Man
over a year ago

in the deep mist of the valleys

First of all I definitely have to say my parents were the biggest influence on my life of their struggles, grit and determination to survive in UK travelling from Jamaica.

Many on here have mentioned my hero's and hero's. So I will make this short.

Bob Marley

Marcus Garvey

Muhammad Ali

Currently today, David Olusoga and Dr Shola Mos Shogbamimu.

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By *os19Man
over a year ago

Edmonton

"
. Yes I remember Cyrille Regis , Laurie Cunningham and Brendan Batson all playing for WBA and some publicity stunt with the pop group at the time called the Three Degrees which were three pretty black girls. Off the top of my head I believe Cyrille Regis and the retired sprinter John Regis were cousins

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

I don't have a particular black icon that I am thankful for.

I grew up in a spectacularly unethnic area, so much so that 40 years later its still predominantly white.( Channel 4 used my hometown as part of a documentary where some pupils switched schools with an area in London, I believe, as an experiment)I also had an extremely racist stepfather.

It made me the opposite and many rows were had.

So I am thankful for all of you, you make the world a brighter place. I have brought my family up in a place with much diversity and we are so much richer for it.

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

"I thought black history month was In February

Did it change?

In the UK I don’t know that it’s ever been in February. "

In the US it’ February

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By *aomilatteCouple
over a year ago

Midlands

. Yes I remember Cyrille Regis , Laurie Cunningham and Brendan Batson all playing for WBA and some publicity stunt with the pop group at the time called the Three Degrees which were three pretty black girls. Off the top of my head I believe Cyrille Regis and the retired sprinter John Regis were cousins "

Correct! In 1979 they all played in a testimonial match which was a black team v a white team (you can find it on Google). At the time they thought it was ok, but it was a different world then.

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By (user no longer on site) OP
over a year ago

"I've a huge soft spot for Lenny Henry. Gary Younge is ex-Guardian - always looked forward to his columns. Marcus Rashford.

Gary is phenomenal.

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By (user no longer on site) OP
over a year ago

Sorry I’ve not gone and replied to you all but I’ve had a day with family but I’ve read all the replies. Some fantastic Black Brits mentioned.

BHM makes me love being Black and growing up my family taught me lots about Black British history and gave me Black people to love and look up to.

I know I complain about it a lot but being Black is my favourite thing about me even when it’s my least favourite.

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By (user no longer on site) OP
over a year ago

My mass has ended! Go forth in peace, homies

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By *os19Man
over a year ago

Edmonton

Correct! In 1979 they all played in a testimonial match which was a black team v a white team (you can find it on Google). At the time they thought it was ok, but it was a different world then. "
. I saw a documentary about the black v white game it was for a WBA possibly Len Cantello I believe two black players who played for Wolves played and one of the players had plats / braids and had to grow them out can you imagine that today

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