Jamaica Hidden Histories: Cultural Re-Awakening Conference Day
Full Spectrum Productions’ ‘Jamaica Hidden Histories’ two year programme of events kicks off with a special Cultural Re-Awakening Conference at the London Metropolitan Archives on Saturday 26th October 2013 from 9.30 am – 5.30 pm.
The day will provide a snapshot of the historical and continuing links between Jamaica and Britain through a series of diverse workshops, talks, discussions, story telling and oral history interviews. Participants’ Jamaican memorabilia will also receive an Antique Roadshow style review. Entry to the event is £10, which will include a full day of activities, refreshments and lunch.
This special programme of events has been specifically designed to promote interactive discussions and audience participation. This is the public’s chance to voice their opinions and have their say on Jamaica’s distinctive cultural identity and links with Britain. Activities include:
• Black Business Media Talk & Discussion: Led by George Ruddock, Managing Director of GV Media Group, publishers of The Voice and Weekly Gleaner. Learn about and discuss the role that the black media plays in portraying the news and the responsibility it has to its readers.
• Ask the Archivist: Guests are encouraged to bring in their own Jamaican artefacts including: postcards, letters, photographs, textiles and business archives. Items will be reviewed by experts and may be selected for future project exhibitions.
• Oral History Interviews: An opportunity for elders to talk about their own ‘Hidden Histories’ and share their personal experiences as part of a video archive.
• Rastafarianism Talk & Workshop: Exploring the biblical references and influences of early reggae music and artists such as Bob Marley and Peter Tosh.
• Business Archives Council Talk: Many Caribbean businesses failed to keep archives. Learn about the importance of business archiving and the role it plays in preserving social and cultural history.
• Story Telling: An interactive performance for secondary school aged children based on the adventures and tribulations of the pirates and buccaneers enlisted by Cromwell to protect Jamaica from Spanish invasion.
• ‘Identity & Belonging’ Discussion: Personal reflections by young people from all communities, providing an insight into their sense of belonging and their thoughts on their role in society.
The event will be chaired by Dolores Cooper OD, Community Initiatives Consultant. Date: Saturday 26 October 2013 Venue: London Metropolitan Archives, 40 Northampton Road, London EC1R 0HB Time: 9.30am – 5.30pm
Tickets: £10 for adults (includes lunch and refreshments), free entry for accompanied young people aged 11-17.
Booking is essential. To reserve places visit
For full conference details, including directions, visit www.Jamaicahiddenhistories.com