We’re looking for race history Detectives
Earlier this year, Birmingham Race Impact Group (BRIG) launched Seeking the Pioneers, an inspiring new project that unearths and celebrates Birmingham’s rich history of anti-racism activism.
With support from the National Lottery Heritage Fund, BRIG is honouring the organisers and activists who pioneered the racial justice movement in post-WWII Britain. Now, more than ever, it’s important to celebrate this heritage and share the stories of Birmingham’s anti-racist pioneers with a new generation.
At the heart of Seeking the Pioneers is an exciting opportunity for community members to become “History Detectives.” Throughout December, BRIG will recruit individuals to help uncover the hidden heritage of anti-racist activism in Birmingham. These History Detectives will receive thorough training to identify pioneers, conduct interviews, share stories, and preserve this essential history for future generations.
By signing up as a History Detective, participants will gain hands-on experience in leadership, community research, content creation, and storytelling. They will learn to operate professional cameras and audio equipment to produce and edit interviews. Additionally, they will acquire practical skills in conducting oral history projects, creating archives, and working within the community with safeguarding procedures and a duty of care. Ultimately, History Detectives will help produce impactful exhibitions across Birmingham that captivate the public and honor those who paved the way.
Seeking the Pioneers is about more than documenting the past. This groundbreaking project also aims to empower Birmingham’s youth to carry forward the torch of racial justice. As Britain’s most diverse and youngest city, Birmingham is home to a generation uniquely positioned to challenge systemic racism across the UK. BRIG aims to equip young people with the skills to identify and address the intersecting racial inequalities affecting our communities.
At BRIG, we see it as our duty to Pass the Baton. This means providing young people with leadership opportunities, critical thinking skills, and practical experience to engage confidently with the struggles and triumphs of those who came before. By working across generations and uniting diverse communities, BRIG envisions a future for Birmingham—and beyond—where racial hatred and discrimination are relegated to history.
If you’re interested in joining Seeking the Pioneers as a History Detective, would like to nominate a Pioneer, or simply want to learn more about our project, please contact info@wearebrig.co.uk. Together, we can honour the past, inspire the present, and work toward a future of equality and justice for all.