As we mark Black History Month this year, we do so against a troubling and urgent backdrop: the rise of far-right activity, the growing support of parties like Reform UK, the scapegoating of migrants and racialised communities, and the ongoing humanitarian catastrophe in Palestine. The recent Unite The Kingdom March illustrates the alarming growth of populist and far-right ideology, and the danger posed by the growing acceptance of racist language within mainstream political discourse. 

Yet, alongside these challenges, we have also witnessed the power of community and cultural resistance. In Liverpool, a brilliant coalition of arts, culture, and community organisations successfully prevented the far-right Reform Party from marching through the L8 area to the Women’s Hospital with their ‘Mass Deportations’ slogan — a vivid reminder that organised, creative opposition works. 

In 1919, race riots swept through British port cities, including Liverpool, where Black communities were violently attacked amid post-war anxiety and economic unrest. In the 1930s, Oswald Mosley’s British Union of Fascists marched through East London, targeting Jewish communities in a chilling echo of European fascism. In the 1970s, the National Front sought to terrorise Black communities, only to be met by a determined, united resistance. The Battle of Lewisham in 1977 remains one of the most significant moments in British anti-fascist history, when thousands stood together to block the far right in its tracks. 

These moments are not distant echoes — they provide valuable lessons. Today’s political climate, with its attacks on migrants and asylum seekers, the increasing legitimisation of racist narratives by prominent political figures, and the surge in hate crime, is a reminder that progress is neither inevitable nor irreversible. It must be defended, renewed, and made real by each generation. History shows us that the only effective response is collective, organised action grounded in solidarity, resistance, and hope. 

Black History Month is not only a time for remembrance and celebration. It is a call to action. From the Windrush generation to the Toxteth uprisings, from Notting Hill to Lewisham, and from the Black Lives Matter movement to the ongoing fight for justice today, our communities have consistently met hatred with courage, creativity, and unity. 

This year, we also reaffirm our solidarity with the people of Palestine. Reflecting on long histories of colonialism, resistance, and survival, we recognise the shared struggles that bind communities across borders. Our fight for justice is inseparable from the fight for freedom everywhere. 

This Black History Month, Writing on the Wall invites you to reflect, organise, and speak out. We have overcome before, and together, we will overcome again. And while the challenges are real, the response of Liverpool’s communities reminds us that creativity, solidarity, and collective action continue to shine as powerful tools against hate, division, and fear.

We launching our Black History Month 25 programme with our celebrated walking tours. More events to be announced soon!