Legacy and Black Lives Matter
Freedomways Front Cover
The South Wales Miners’ Library is honouring Paul Robeson’s legacy as a scholar, athlete, actor, singer and global activist.
Today this exhibition looks back on the legacy of Paul Robeson and how his ideas are still acknowledged and valued in 21st century society. His role in the history of civil rights and as a spokesperson for the oppressed of other nations still resonates to this day and modern-day disputes such as the Black Lives Matter movement elucidate the importance of Robeson’s legacy. Similarly, to the movement Robeson was a significant vocal advocate for racial equality that fought against the unjust for African American. In his autobiography Robeson recounts how during the McCarthy hearings, when he was asked by a Congressional committee about why he didn't stay in the Soviet Union, he replied:
‘Because my father was a slave, and my people died to build this country, and I am going to stay right here and have part of it like you. And no fascist-minded people will drive me from it. Is that clear?'.
Paul Robeson portrait used in the 'Let Paul Robeson Sing' exhibition which was created by the Paul Robeson Wales Trust
Reading American Negro Songs
Paul Robeson’s legacy is our opportunity to champion greater change and contribute through education. To create an environment that has no place for racism or any social injustice.
We take our role as educators seriously and we want to promote our values, support Black Lives Matter and tackle all forms of racism.
Education has the power to change lives and communities!
For further reading:
Paul Robeson Foundation: https://www.paulrobesonfdn.org/
Black Lives Matter: https://blacklivesmatter.com/
NAACP: https://blacklivesmatter.com/
For information about this exhibition, please contact:
Email: miners@swansea.ac.uk
Phone: 01792 518603