Black Cultural Archives presents Community: Becoming Black & British at The Ritzy!

On 27th February 2025, The World Reimagined, in collaboration with Black Cultural Archives, hosted a special screening of their documentary Community: Becoming Black & British at the iconic Ritzy cinema in Brixton. This event brought together communities, artists, and historians to explore often overlooked narratives of Black British heritage and identity, fostering meaningful discussions about the past, present, and future.
Community: Becoming Black & British is a documentary which focused on the 1970s to 2000, when the UK saw the emergence of Black community organisations that deeply enriched society. They emerged after the height of the civil rights struggle, led by volunteers who played a crucial role in empowering Black communities as they fought for access, participation, and progress in the arts, education, and sports. This project, having launched in London, is now aiming to travel across other UK cities to find other heritage stories in those communities.
Following the screening, a panel discussion curated by Black Cultural Archives provided an insightful exploration of community, youth culture, and the enduring legacy of Black British civil rights. The conversation underscored the importance of storytelling in shaping our collective understanding of history and identity, highlighting the role of lived experiences in informing societal progress.
We extend our sincere gratitude to Directors Wayne ‘Zippy’ Louis and Roger Russell, whose vision and dedication brought this documentary to life. Equally, we are also immensely grateful to the remarkable young creatives who contributed their perspectives: Summer-Honey James-Brown, Renee Thomas, and Perise Campbell Bailey. Their insights challenged and inspired attendees, emphasising the vital role of young people in driving change.
The event was a testament to the power of intergenerational dialogue and creative expression. Through film and discussion, attendees engaged with the historical struggles and achievements that continue to shape contemporary movements for racial justice and equity. The evening reaffirmed the importance of the arts as a medium for bringing history to life and amplifying voices that have historically been marginalised.
We are deeply grateful to Ritzy Cinema for providing a welcoming and dynamic space for this event and to Black Cultural Archives for their invaluable collaboration and support. Their ongoing commitment to preserving and sharing Black history remains an essential force for knowledge and empowerment in the UK.
Most importantly, we thank everyone who attended and contributed to this vital discussion. Your engagement helps ensure that these stories remain part of our collective consciousness, inspiring future generations to continue the pursuit of justice and equality.