Today, we took part in something truly special: a Black Heritage Walk through Birmingham, led by the amazing Marcia. From the very beginning, it was clear this wasn’t going to be just another guided tour. It felt more like a journey – through time, through stories, and through a side of the city many of us had never really seen before.

Marcia welcomed us with warmth and enthusiasm, and her passion for history was obvious from the get-go. What stood out most was how personal she made it. This wasn’t a list of dates and names – it was about people. She brought the city’s Black history to life with real stories of struggle, strength, and resilience. You could tell she wasn’t just sharing facts; she was sharing something that matters deeply to her and to the wider community.

One of the first things we explored was the history of the Windrush Generation – those who came from the Caribbean after World War II to help rebuild the UK. Many of them settled in Birmingham, and our guest speaker and Marcia spoke about what that experience was like. She told us about the racism and discrimination they faced when trying to find housing and work, but also about their determination to create better lives for their families. These were people who helped shape entire neighborhoods, opened businesses, built communities, and added so much richness to the city’s culture. It was both sobering and inspiring to hear what they went through and how much they contributed.

Marcia also talked us through moments of civil rights activism that happened right here in Birmingham. It’s easy to think of movements like that as something that happened far away – maybe back home in America or in London – but the reality is, Birmingham has its own powerful stories. People stood up, spoke out, and fought for justice and equality right on the streets we were walking. Being in those places made the stories feel even more real.

But what was probably the most surprising part of the walk was learning that Black history in Birmingham goes back much further than the Windrush era. Marcia shared stories about African and Caribbean people living in Britain for centuries – long before most of us were taught to think they did. That part really stuck with me. It reminded all of us how much of history gets left out or pushed aside, and how important it is to keep learning and questioning what we think we know.

Throughout the walk, there was a strong sense of connection – not just to the city, but to the people who’ve lived, worked, and struggled here over generations. Marcia has a real gift for storytelling, and she made space for us to reflect, to ask questions, and to really take it all in. The conversations we had along the way added even more depth to the experience.

By the end of the walk, we all felt a mix of emotions – moved, thoughtful, and incredibly grateful. Grateful for the stories we heard, for the history we learned, and for Marcia herself. She led us with such care, honesty, and insight. It wasn’t just about looking back; it was also about understanding the present and thinking about how we move forward.

Thank you, Marcia, for such a powerful and unforgettable day. You were awesome!