Join project Uplift for a special event marking the 80th anniversary of the historic 5th Pan-African Congress, a landmark moment in the struggle against colonialism and for global Black liberation.
There'll be a talk and open Q&A with Professor Paul Okojie, a leading expert and participant in Pan-Africanist movements. Professor Okojie will reflect on why the 1945 congress was such a powerful moment in history, and how its calls for freedom, unity, and justice still speak to the struggles and hopes of today.
Author Geoff Brown, who is currently working on a new book about Ras Makonnen, will also be joining us. Geoff will share stories about Makonnen’s life and the vital role he played in bringing people together in Manchester to demand change for Africa and the wider world.
There will also be displaying original archival materials connected to the congress, offering a rare chance to see the documents, posters, and voices that helped shape this historic movement.
To close the event will be a special performance by cellist and composer Gary Washington. His music will be both a celebration and meditation on Pan-African movements, highlighting the important role that music plays in sustaining culture and resistance in the face of incredible odds.
This event creates space to honour and learn more about the incredible work of the Congress’s participants, hold space for Manchester communities to connect and reflect on what Pan-African solidarity means for us today, in Manchester and beyond.
