Founded in 1981, the Black Cultural Archives’ mission is to collect, preserve and celebrate the heritage and history of Black people in Britain.
We opened the UK’s first dedicated Black heritage centre in Brixton, London in July 2014. Our location enable us to provide greater access to our archive collection, dedicated learning spaces and an exciting programme of exhibitions and events that explore British history from a unique perspective.
Our unparalleled and growing archive collection offers insight into the history of people of African and Caribbean descent in Britain. The bulk of the collection is drawn from the twentieth century to the present day, while some materials date as far back as the second century. The collection includes personal papers, organisational records, rare books, ephemera, photographs, and a small object collection.
Black Cultural Archives is a national institution dedicated to collecting, preserving and celebrating the histories of diverse people of African and Caribbean descent in Britain.
Using our unique collection, we will promote the teaching, learning and understanding of the African peoples' contribution, which will enable the public to learn and connect with hidden histories, creating an experience to uplift and inspire. This will be achieved through our exhibitions, public programmes and events. Our growing collection of original archives will constitute a permanent record of the richness of the Black experience in Britain and be accessible to all.
Black Cultural Archives is a welcoming space for everyone to learn, explore and become inspired by Black British heritage and history.
