In ‘Natives’, Akala explores policing, education, identity, racism, politics and colonialism through his own experiences of the intersections between race and class, examining how his own life has been shaped by the legacies of the British empire. In doing so, he confronts the denial of and reluctance to interrogate issues of race and class which are central to Britain’s colonial legacies, as well as the romanticisation of the British empire. In the current climate of the so-called ‘culture wars’, examining the political, social and historical factors which have resulted in this troubling landscape is essential. Therefore, the GCfE will be facilitating a discussion on ‘Natives’ and the critical issues it explores.

Discussion points may include, but are not limited to:

• Memories and legacies of colonialism in the UK and beyond.

• Intersections of race and class.

• Confronting uncomfortableness when examining imperial histories and legacies.

If you are unable to read the book but still want to engage with some of the issues it explores, please listen to this conversation between Akala and David Olusoga: https://soundcloud.com/southbankcentre_book_podcast/akala-and-david-olusoga-striking-the-empire

The event will be held over Zoom, the link to which you will be sent prior to the event. Everyone is welcome whether you have read the book or not. Undergraduates, postgraduates, academics, non-academics and non-students are all welcome! If you have any questions regarding the event please do not hesitate to get in touch via gcfe@contacts.bham.ac.uk.