1964: Making History

New Project Announcement: ‘1964: Making History’

The University of Warwick and the Shaheed Udham Singh Welfare Trust are pleased to announce the launch of their latest collaborative venture, ‘1964: Making History’. This project aims to engage young adults aged 18-25, inviting them to explore local anti-racist histories, with a special focus on the significant contributions of the Indian Workers’ Association (IWA) and the historic visit of Malcolm X to Smethwick.

A Glimpse into the Project

Over the course of 12 workshops, participants will step into the archives of the IWA. Here, they will immerse themselves in the socio-political landscape in which the organisation emerged, delving into themes of anti-imperial and anti-colonial activism. What’s more, they will examine the formation of anti-racist organisations and alliances in the UK, including notable collaborations involving race activists Claudia Jones and Malcolm X.

Venturing beyond the surface, these workshops will unravel the motivations behind the IWA’s grassroots activism, from intimate gatherings in homes to bold demonstrations on the streets, and even daring activism within the workplace. Through a variety of mediums such as conversations, creative writing, audio-visual forms, and movement, participants will collectively engage with materials. Their insights and interpretations will inform the creation of artwork which will be showcased in a final exhibition.

Joining the Project

The workshops are set to commence on Wednesday 24th April, and will run weekly at the Shaheed Udham Singh Welfare Centre, Soho Road, Handsworth, Birmingham, B21 9QL Those interested in taking part are invited to express their interest by reaching out to: 1964@suswc.co.uk.

For further insights and updates, interested individuals are encouraged to explore the project’s website and connect with the project’s community on Instagram.