Darcus Howe remembered at Black Cultural Archives

The crowd spilled into Windrush Square
The crowd spilled into Windrush Square

Hundreds of people crowded into Brixton’s Black Cultural Archives last night (9 April) for an event to mark the death of the noted equal rights campaigner and Brixton resident Darcus Howe.

Those who could not get into the courtyard to watch two films and hear the people who knew him recall his life spilled out into Windrush Square.

The BCA's courtyard was crowded long before proceedings began
The BCA’s courtyard was crowded long before proceedings began

Introduced by BCA director Paul Reid, speakers ranged from childhood friends in Trinidad to former Cabinet minister Lord (Paul) Boateng.

Without exception, they recalled his inspiring presence and intellect, bravery and humanity.

Darcus' widow Leila and members of his family were greeted by the audience
Darcus’ widow Leila and members of his family were greeted by the audience

 

BCA director Paul Reid was MC
BCA director Paul Reid was MC

 

Former Black Panthers listen to the contribution  of Early – the Black Panther Movement's first and youngest recruit in Brixton in the 1960s
Former Black Panthers listen to the contribution  of Early – the Black Panther Movement’s first and youngest recruit in Brixton in the 1960s

 

 

Neil Kenlock
Neil Kenlock – the Black Panther Movement’s photographer, whose work is on display at the BCA this week

 

Brother Sam, who knew Darcus Howe from school days in Port of Spain in Trinidad
Brother Sam, who knew Darcus from their school days in Port of Spain, Trinidad

 

Dennis Bovell ???
Black Panther Noel Green, manager of the pioneer lovers’ rock band Matumbi

 

Black Panther Sonia Reid
Black Panther Sonia Reid

 

Corinthia? second name?
Black Panther Corinthia

 

Clovis second name?
Black Panther Clovis Reid

 

Paul Boateng
Paul Boateng

 

Darcus' widow Leila was presented with BlackPoppyRose wreath by Selena Carty in recognition of his role as a soldier for Black rights
Darcus’ widow Leila was presented with BlackPoppyRose wreath by Selena Carty in recognition of his role as a soldier for Black rights

 

Patrick Vernon
Patrick Vernon