Over the next three months, in collaboration with PHD researcher Vivian Latinwo-Olajide and the University of Leicester, The George Padmore Institute is proud to present a three part workshop series introducing participants to basic archival practice, whilst exploring critical questions. All sessions are free, but donations are welcome.

The sessions build on the work of our pilot programme as part of the Citizens of a Common World project, exploring new ways to use the collections. “We hope everyone can recognise that they have the capacity to build and take care of an archive. We want to demystify the notion of archiving so that people recognise the value of the material that exists in their own lives,” shared Vivian.

Sarah Garrod, archivist at the GPI added, “People can feel intimidated by archives and record offices. But we want to use this space to show that building an archive and developing archival skills needn’t complicated or inaccessible. We care about making the practice of archiving accessible. The GPI has grown out of a strong DIY ethos - gathering evidence, materials, and seeing the value in items and materials that might otherwise have been disposed of."

Session 1 will explore:

• How to structure a collection

• How to build a catalogue

• Preservation

• Access and Visibility

• Ethical questions around objectivity, interpretation and the politics of use

• Sustainability

Natasha Nkonde and Deborah Grayson from The GLC Story will also be sharing their journey to date and approach to building an archive.

Spaces are limited, so please only RSVP if you are definitely attending. If you can no longer attend, please email Sarah Garrod info@georgepadmoreinstitute.org

Please note that the GPI is an inacessible building. We will be making resources available after the workshops.

Session Dates:

• Session 1: 23rd Feb Build your own archive!

• Session 2: March TBC Digital archiving

• Session 3: 27th April Archival research