Brick Lane 1978: A major new project being launched in October

Four Corners and partner Swadhinata Trust are delighted to announce a major new project which has received a National Lottery Heritage Fund grant. Thanks to National Lottery players, ‘Brick Lane 1978: The Turning Point’ will share the stories of the local community of Brick Lane, East London, during a pivotal year in race relations. The largely Bengali community mobilised in an unprecedented, anti-racist uprising against far-right groups, following the murder of Altab Ali, a 25-year-old Bengali leather garments worker. Their actions represented a turning point in local and national resistance against racial harassment and discrimination.

Launching on Friday 4th October at an event at Four Corners, the project will explore how and why this watershed moment unfolded. Volunteers will work with an extensive collection of archive images by photographer Paul Trevor, using them as a powerful catalyst to research, identify and gather oral history accounts from those involved at the time. The aim is to create a lasting, first-hand record of local peoples’ memories, and to make Paul Trevor’s historically significant photographs publicly accessible. The project runs over two years from Summer 2019, with the launch of a public programme of exhibition, talks and study days at Four Corners’ Gallery in Spring 2021.

Ansar Ahmed Ullah, Director of Swadhinata Trust said: “This year is the 41st anniversary of Altab Ali’s killing. It is important to capture and document that period before it’s too late. It is the most important aspect of the Bengali community’s history in the UK. To capture that struggle with those who were there physically and in images is very exciting.”

Paul Trevor said: “They say a photo is worth a thousand words. But sometimes, as in this case, words are essential. This project is an opportunity to add the voices of those who made history to the images of that story.”

Carla Mitchell, Development Director at Four Corners said: “This history is hugely relevant today, with an increase of racist attacks making the headlines in 2019.  Thanks to National Lottery players we will be able to ensure that this powerful heritage is made publicly accessible for a wide audience of current & future generations.”

Stuart Hobley, Area Director, London & South at The National Lottery Heritage Fund said: “The history of community activism and anti-racism of Brick Lane 1978 has played a significant role in shaping the culture and heritage of London. We’re delighted that, thanks to National Lottery players, we can support Four Corners to explore and record this crucial part of the local community’s heritage, acknowledging its impact on the city and promoting better understanding in the wider community.”