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Beyond Banglatown

Brick Lane has been described by many as the ‘heartland’ of the Bangladeshi community in Britain, representing five decades of the struggle to belong and be recognised as part of the global city of London and the wider multicultural nation. Perhaps the most visible testament to this presence is ‘Banglatown’ – the short stretch of Bangladeshi-owned curry restaurants, cafés and other retail spaces that crowd the southern end of Brick Lane.  The story of Bengali Brick Lane is a lens onto a vibrant but little-known history of the East End, of London, of Britain and its former empire – which is one strand in the tapestry of modern multicultural, post-imperial Britain. It is a story, too, of the street itself, and its iconic place within London and Britain’s history of migration.

Where are you from?

It can be a struggle to answer the inevitable question: ‘Where are you from?’ when you’re not quite sure. A young woman of mixed heritage searches for an answer by looking back over three generations of her family. Documents, family stories and of course the British staple of tea and biscuits help her figure out a way to reply.

A personal look at questions of identity, at a time where migration, political isolation and reclaiming history are hot topics. Is it important to look to your own past in order to better respond to wider issues present today?

Talking About Race

Talking about race, although hard, is necessary. This resource has been created by the Smithsonian for educators to help with opening a discussion about race. It looks at the historical foundations of race, being anti-racist and building a community, as well as providing the tools and guidance to explore this topic whether you are teaching infants, adults, or any age in between. There’s no quick or foolproof way to talk about the complexities of race. But, it’s a conversation we all need to have, no matter your race, background, education or experience. What and how the history of race in America is presented is an opportunity to engage in thoughtful, respectful, and productive conversations.

Mathematics by Hollie McNish

Hollie McNish performs her poem, Mathematics. A poem on immigration based on personal experience and studies. The poem owes a lot to a book by economist Philippe Legrain called Immigrants: Your Country Needs Them. We think this works really well as a starter or plenary.

Click here to watch on YouTube