The recent ‘Save Brick Lane’ campaign witnessed anti-gentrification/social cleansing demonstrations not seen in the East End for decades, with thousands of people objecting to the plans to redevelop and corporatise the historic Truman Brewery on Brick Lane – a place of heritage, cultural and social significance. 7,500+ peoples’ voices were ignored due to the relationship between elected representatives, planning departments, developer interest and wealthy landowners. We ask: how can we ensure a longterm future for East London’s diverse communities without displacing them from their public places?
In this half-day policy conference you will receive updates from the Save Brick Lane Coalition and from other live campaigns and pressure groups. The breakout sessions and interactive campaigner-led workshops will adopt ‘Theatre of the Oppressed’ (Augusto Boal, 1931-2009) methods with a trained facilitator, to see how we can break through our perceived notions of power and structures of oppression towards key learnings and tangible steps forward. Outcomes from the workshops will give shape to the community’s narrative, shape local policies and the next stages for the ‘Save Brick Lane’ campaign. A vegetarian lunch will be made available with tea/ snacks throughout the day.
This conference would suit many people: if you want an update about the campaign, activists, academic/researcher, local interest groups and active supporters and newcomers.
Details of the half-day policy conference are given below:
The New East End Clearances: lessons from the Truman Brewery redevelopment
Date: Saturday 12 March 2022
Time: 11am – 3.30pm
Venue: St Matthew’s Church, St Matthew’s Row, Bethnal Green, London E2 6DT
Nearest stations: Shoreditch High Street (Overground/5-7 minute walk) or Bethnal Green (Central line/ 10 minute walk), Aldgate East (District, Hammersmith & City lines/ 15 minute walk)
BOOK YOUR TICKET THROUGH THIS EVENTBRITE LINK*: https://clearances.eventbrite.com
There are limited places so it’s advised that you book early. Call 07915 234 404 or email bengaliheritagesociety@gmail.com if you have any questions.
*We are charging a small fee that will go towards the venue hire, lunchtime food and the legal fight.
This conference is supported by the Spitalfields Trust, Spitalfields Life, Bengali East End Heritage Society, Nijjor Manush, East End Trades Guild, Tipping Point UK, House of Annetta, St. Matthew’s Bethnal Green and the East End Preservation Society.
