The Black Power Movement

The British Black Power Movement of the late 1960’s and early 1970’s formed out of the need for racial equality in a hostile Britain. Although the term “Black Power” is mostly associated with the civil rights movement in the United States, the British Black Power Movement was a movement in its own right, fighting against the racial discrimination which was increasingly rife in Britain. The British Black Power movement was led by both Black and Asian migrants, who were dedicated and determined to shape a future in Britain, and to obtain an equal society, among white British people. The aim was to overthrow white supremacy which subordinated Black people in a range of ways, including access to healthcare, safe housing, voting and fair and equal education. Unlike the Black Power Movement in the US, the British movement was less concerned with combating segregation, but it did have similarities in combating the unfair justice system, as well as police brutality and creating a liberation movement led by Black people for Black people. 

The Universal Coloured People’s Association was the first Black Power organisation in the UK, founded in 1967. It was formed and led by Obi Egbuna, then President of the organisation and Roy Sawh who was second in charge. The group was the first to take on the view of having a Black Power movement which was run by the people for the people. Following a conference run by Stokey Carmichael, the group expelled all of its white members, in favour of a more Black Power oriented system. 

In September 1967, following a visit from Stokey Carmichael and Malcolm X in London, a group of West African and West Indian settlers identified themselves as the British Black Panther Movement. The Black Panther Movement in the UK was officially founded in 1968 by Obi Egbuna, Darcus Howe, but later led by Althea Jones-Lecointe. 

Although there were similarities with the Black Panther Party Movement in America, including aspects of their symbols, chants, and demands. Egbuna envisioned the party to be a revolutionary, militant underground organisation, with trained leaders representing the plights of the working class. Whilst, Jones-Leocinte wanted to position the Panthers as a grassroots organisation, including the causes of young people, Black workers, and those who were unemployed.

During its formation, and dissolution in 1972, many young men were inspired to join, including Neil Kenlock, who became the official photographer for the party, and dub poet Linton Kwesi Johnson. 

The Black Liberation Front was a political organisation, which started in 1971. They had a broad Black membership base, most of whom remained anonymous in their engagement with the public. Drawing ideas from Pan-African Socialism and Black nationalism, The Black Liberation Front engaged with international as well as national issues affecting Black People in the UK, having a significant impact on the Black British political landscape, influencing many policies and movements. 

Although the Black Power movement in Britain was relatively short lived, it’s impact can be seen in establishing and developing educational reforms and supplementary schools for Black children's education, as well as creating affordable and safe housing for the Black population in Britain, and creating community spaces, including bookshops. 

Learn more about the Black Power and Black Liberation movements when you visit BCA in Brixton, London.