The Black British Book Festival: A Celebration of Creativity and a Call for Change
The Barbican's foyer will transform into a vibrant hub of storytelling and cultural pride this Sunday, marking the fifth year of the Black British Book Festival (BBBF). What started as an intimate gathering has now become a powerful movement, highlighting the richness of Black British literature and the urgent need for better representation in publishing.
A Festival Born from Frustration and Determination:
The BBBF's inception stems from children's author Selina Brown's frustration with the industry's bias. In 2021, Brown founded the festival after being told her book wouldn't sell due to the Black girl on the cover. Her determination led to a one-day event that has since evolved into a year-round platform, hosting festivals, opening libraries, and collaborating with iconic institutions like Glastonbury.
A Growing Festival, a Shrinking Industry:
The BBBF's success is undeniable, attracting thousands and renowned authors. Yet, the publishing industry's progress in embracing Black literature remains questionable. The post-2020 surge in sales of books by writers of color, sparked by the Black Lives Matter movement, seems to have been a fleeting spike rather than a lasting shift.
Controversial Trends and Disappointing Data:
Despite the initial boom, recent reports indicate a decline in the industry's commitment to Black authors. Leading Black literary figures claim UK publishing is less accessible to Black writers now than before 2020. Data shows that the promised broadening of publishing's output hasn't materialized. And a recent study revealed a shocking drop in Black representation in children's books, a decline of over 20% in just one year.
A Festival's Impact and a System's Flaws:
Marcus Ryder, a festival participant, highlights the festival's significance, saying it celebrates Black thinking and creativity. However, he criticizes the publishing financial model, arguing that it doesn't favor brilliant Black literature. The industry's focus on trends, rather than integrity and authenticity, is soul-destroying, as Jordan Stephens, another festival host, points out.
A Community's Need and a Vision for Change:
The BBBF's rapid growth and the simultaneous contraction of Black literature in publishing reveal a community's desire for representation and connection. Ryder suggests that state funding for underrepresented groups in literature is essential, as relying solely on profit motives undermines its societal importance. The festival, he emphasizes, sets an agenda led by Black people, a rare and powerful opportunity.
A Cultural Renaissance in Turbulent Times:
Amid rising political tension and cultural division in the UK, the BBBF offers a counterbalance. While it provides a response to hostile political climates, it also sets its own agenda, celebrating Black creativity and challenging perceptions of Britishness. The festival reminds us of the imperialist nature of Britain and the need to recognize and celebrate Black excellence.
A Call for Permanent Change:
The BBBF serves as a beacon, asserting the permanence of Black culture and community. It echoes historical cultural renaissances, where community building led to great art and literature. But it also highlights the limitations of representation in the UK, where Black History Month's surge in interest is often followed by silence.
The BBBF is more than a festival; it's a movement for change. It invites us to question the industry's practices and embrace the richness of Black British literature. But are we ready to listen and take action? The conversation continues, and the festival's impact is a testament to the power of community and creativity.
