Patrick Vernon

Event: 6th October, 2025-November-Seeking the Pioneers: Routes of Resistance

New Exhibition Explores 80 Years of Solidarity and the Fight for Racial Justice

Birmingham, 6 October 2025 – After two years of careful research, collaboration, and community engagement, the Birmingham Race Impact Group (BRIG) has officially launched Seeking the Pioneers: Routes of Resistance — a landmark exhibition now open at the Library of Birmingham.

Funded by the National Lottery Heritage Fund, this powerful new exhibition shines a light on Birmingham’s pivotal role in the fight for racial justice over the past eight decades. Featuring striking photographic portraits, first-hand testimonies, and rich archival materials, the showcase honours 100 individuals and groups who have actively challenged racism from the 1940s to the present day.

The exhibition has been curated by Mukhtar Dar: cultural activist, artist, and archivist — with photography by Johnathan Williams and Paul McKenzie. Together, they have crafted a moving visual and narrative journey that foregrounds the courage, vision, and impact of the pioneers who have shaped Birmingham’s anti-racist movement.

“These stories are etched in acts of defiance,” said Mukhtar Dar. “Now more than ever, with street racism on the rise and the threat posed by the far right, these pioneers stand as examples of courage, vision, and hope. Their journeys continue to shape our future and remind us that resistance takes many forms.”

For BRIG, this exhibition represents more than a historical tribute — it’s a commitment to inspiring future generations. As part of the group’s long-term vision to support a more inclusive and equitable society, Seeking the Pioneers plays a key role in Birmingham’s goal to become an anti-racist city by 2035.

“At times, we’ve had difficult conversations, as pioneers shared painful realities of overcoming racism,” said Ranjit Sondhi, Chair of BRIG. “Yet their resilience continues to inspire and sustain us. This exhibition is part of our commitment to making Birmingham an anti-racist city by 2035.”

Visitors to the exhibition can engage with the stories interactively each portrait is accompanied by a QR code linking to additional content, including personal reflections and video interviews. This blend of storytelling and technology ensures the legacy of these changemakers lives on, reaching new audiences and empowering young people to carry forward the work of racial justice.

Exhibition Details

• Dates: 6 October – November 2025

• Location: Library of Birmingham, Centenary Square, Broad Street, Birmingham B1 2ND

• Admission: Free entry

• Interactive Feature: QR codes on each portrait for extended stories and testimonies

  About BRIG

The Birmingham Race Impact Group (BRIG) is a collective of activists and academics working to advance racial justice in Birmingham. Formed in response to the disproportionate impact of COVID-19 on racially minoritised communities and the global momentum of the Black Lives Matter movement, BRIG documents and celebrates the contributions of Black, Asian, and Global Majority campaigners. Through exhibitions, education, and advocacy, BRIG supports the next generation of activists and fosters lasting cultural and structural change.

About The National Lottery Heritage Fund

As the UK’s largest dedicated funder of heritage, the National Lottery Heritage Fund supports projects that connect people and communities to their history. Through its Heritage 2033 strategy, the Fund will invest £3.6 billion over the next decade to ensure that heritage is valued, cared for, and made accessible to future generations.

For media enquiries, interviews, and further information about Seeking the Pioneers, please contact:
📧 Ruchi Tandon – ruchitandy@hotmail.com
📞 07786 727182