This talk outlines the historical development of black women’s collective agency in
1980’s Britain, with particular attention to OWAAD (the Organisation of Women of
Asian and African descent 1978-1982). It will examine the organisation’s origins which
were influenced by the American Civil Rights Movement. Other converging factors led to
its growth, such as the Enoch Powell ‘Rivers of Blood Speech’ in 1968, the increase of 1970’s racism, state harassment, and the SUS laws. Examples from other black women’s groups will be used to reference current day political organising and the lessons we can learn from the past.
Free – bookings essential: 020 7223 2334