NORFOLK BLACK HISTORY MONTH WAS DELIGHTED TO CELEBRATE STEPHEN LAWRENCE DAY THIRTY YEARS ON. THE EVENT REMEMBERED HIS LIFE AND CELEBRATE HIS LEGACY. THE MAIN EVENT WAS HELD AT THE FORUM IN NORWICH ON 21ST APRIL WITH OTHER EVENTS HELD IN LIBRARIES AND SCHOOLS THROUGHOUT NORFOLK.
R E P O R T
STEPHEN LAWRENCE DAY 2023
Norfolk Black History Month Lessons Learned Document
1. Event Purpose/Objectives
The event's objectives and key performance indicators are based on the materials shared by the Stephen Lawrence Day Foundation .Stephen Lawrence Day is an opportunity for people, communities, and organisations to come together and honour Stephen's life and legacy, stand up against discrimination in our daily lives, and work towards a more hopeful tomorrow. The OPCC and Norfolk Black History Month with work together to put on an event that supports purpose outlined by the SLDF
2. Attendance
The event attendance was measured from 9.00am to 5.00pm using footfall though the central revolving door at the entrance to the forum, it does not include entrance through other entry points such as the carpark, CAB, or Marzano’s café. A total of 9,000 people was recorded.
3. QR Code Survey
The NBHM team produced a short 3 question survey which was accessed from a QR code on the leaflets handout out during the event and also via the NBHM website.
3.1 Average Score
We asked how effectively the event has met attendee’s needs and expectations around commemorating Stephen Lawrence, 5 being the highest.
THE AVERAGE RESPONSE WAS 4.7.
3.2 Sentiment Analysis
We asked what impact the event had on attendees. Their knowledge, how they feel or what they want to do differently? The word cloud below illustrates the overriding sentiments of the participants that responded using the survey.
3.3 Comments Harvested from the Survey
Despite 30 years, a lot of us asked "has anything changed?"
For my children seeing a Black police officer and an Asian female police officer was powerful. They had a chat to them and they were very personable. I imagine the Black guy felt very emotional and also conflicted but he came across very well. A credit to the force. I want to celebrate folk like these two and be reassured they are safe at work- from their colleagues.
It was educational. Reflecting and sense of community feel.
Learning that it took many years for the police to start making efforts for justice is just beyond me. It does not feel right and it makes me question my value in society.
It felt like a bit of a sea change for Norfolk. A good coming together of many different voices and experiences.
It highlighted that there is trauma that needs to be addressed. Families are afraid for their Black children and this is because of their and their family's experiences here. This needs to be addressed before we can move on. The work needs to be more than cultural awareness- it needs to be reparative and restorative
I felt it was an outstanding event with a variety of different themes and perspectives on display. I learned a lot of the speakers and stands on their perspectives on anti-racism and what how far we have come as a society, but also the strides we need to make to improve even further.
I already knew about Stephen Lawrence, so I didn’t learn anything but it was an emotional, joyous and thought provoking day to see all citizens come together. I was particularly looking forward to the children’s choirs and I wasn’t disappointed, they were fabulous and for me a real highlight. Both performances of blinded by your grace were memorable, and the addition of the rappers at the second performance was extra special.
A determination for this tragedy to have a positive and reflective outcome for youngsters.t allowed me to reflect on the experiences of Black and minority ethnic youths and to seek out networking opportunities to make the necessary impact in society.
4. What worked well
Talking circle
Audience / attendee participation- talking circle, singing, art activities
The performances from musicians, singers, poets
Broad engagement from 3rd party organisations
Contributions from the schools that engaged
It appeared to feel like a safe space for EDC families and attendees with protected characteristics
The EDC police officers came across as great role models
Paul Stanford’s contribution felt authentic, appropriately pitched / toned and well
The choirs both at the start and end of the event were outstanding
The venue and events team were responsive, well organised and professional
The planning team were responsive and able to make on the fly changes dependent on how the attendees reacted or external feedback
Any important insights garnered from hosting the event.
Work more closely with the venue and the events team ensuring all the requirements are established earlier
Ensure all the connections and new relationships are cultivated beyond the single event.
As there were a number of parties involved it would be helpful to have clear lines of sign on decision making and roles and responsibilities
The communication between the parties involved could be more efficient, particularly where activities are delegated by a SPOC.