2020 was an unparalleled year in many ways, whether it was on the news, social media or in your community, people were talking about Black lives. A long overdue conversation. Although it might sound like this conversation is louder than ever, Black people have been fighting all their lives.
Following the murder of George Floyd and the Black Lives Matter protests across the world we were inundated with heartfelt cries and appeals from young Black people across Britain who felt they didn’t have the opportunity to share their thoughts and experiences on racism in the UK and beyond. So, we came together with youth organisations My Life My Say, The Diana Award and activist Jermain Jackman to launch the #YoungAndBlack campaign. A space to share, listen and learn from the experiences of young Black people.
Throughout 2020 we used our platform to share these thoughts and opinions on growing up young and Black in Britain – from young people living it now, to others reflecting on their stories.
Black lives still matter in 2021 and every year yet to come.
Our campaign aims are:
1. Amplify Young and Black voices by creating opportunities to share their experiences and stories
In 2021 we will be continuing to share these stories across our platforms, whether that’s through a video, a written anecdote, an illustration, or a voice recording – if you want to share your story, we would love to hear from you!
How you can get involved:
- Record a video no longer than three minutes of you talking about your experiences – this can be raw footage or edited
- Illustrate your story through a drawing or digital art
- Record spoken word
- Write an article or blog post
- If there is an alternative creative medium you would like to express your story through – get in touch. We are flexible and want you to communicate what you have to say in whatever way is preferable.
In need of some inspiration before being a part of the campaign? Read Tyrone Higgin’s story here or head over to our YouTube playlist to watch the videos we have shared so far.
If you’d like to get involved, sign up to the campaign here or email us.
2. Celebrate & showcase the achievements of young Black people
UK Youth hosted a webinar series in 2020, you can rewatch the series exploring intersections and experiences of black people in the UK here.
3. Enable young and Black people to be heard by developing tools and resources to create safe spaces
Racism exists. It’s taught. You’re not born that way. You learn it. Some people embrace it to justify their position, opinion, fear and ignorance. What you see in the United States is just as alive and relevant in the UK.
-Wayne, Coca-Cola European Partners