‘Brick Lane 1978: The Turning Point’ exhibition begins in London

A special photo exhibition titled "Brick Lane 1978: The Turning Point" has been organised at the Four Corners Gallery in London to commemorate the brave protest of the Bangladeshi community against the unjustified killing of Altab Ali, a 24-year-old Bengali youth, who was killed at the hands of racists.

The 4-month long exhibition will showcase 70 photographs taken by Paul Trevor during the protest by the Bangladeshi community for justice and equal rights. The exhibition will begin on June 10 and will run till September 10.

"Brick Lane 1978: The Turning Point" showcases a strong narrative of the activists of that time alongside powerful images of the protests captured by Paul Trevor. The interviews were led by Four Corners and Swadhinata Trust along with a dedicated group of volunteers.

Julie Begum, Chair of Swadhinata Trust, said "We need to stand together against the racial violence faced by the Bangladeshi community in 1978 at London's East End. It is important for us to celebrate Altab Ali day to commemorate our solidarity for the cause."

Paul Trevor became emotional when remembering the protests.

"They say a photo is worth a thousand words. But sometimes, as in this case, words are essential. This project is an opportunity to add the voices of those who made history to the images of that story," said Trevor.

Carla Mitchell, Artistic Development Director at Four Corners said: "This history is highly relevant today, with an increase of racist attacks and violence making the headlines. Thanks to National Lottery players we will be able to ensure that this powerful heritage is made publicly accessible for a wide audience of current & future generations."

Here is a little historical background for this powerful movement. In early 1978, Britain's National Front and other organisations that promoted racist narratives appealed to many racists throughout the country. These people, in turn attacked the Bengali immigrants using physical violence and also by by constantly hurling racial abuse.

On May 4, 1978, they killed a garments worker named Altab Ali. This led to mass uproar as immigrant communities, including Bengalis, came together to protest this racial killing. On May 14, 1978, over 7,000 people marched from Brick Lane to Hyde Park and then to Downing Street, behind Altab Ali's coffin, where they handed in a petition demanding police protection. That year young Bengali people mobilised in a community-led, antiracist struggle which brought about a radical social transformation both locally and far beyond. This anti-racial movement led to the eventual removal of Britain's National Front from power.

Paul Trevor captured more than 400 photographs of the protests, many of which will be screened for the first time ever in this exhibition. These photos highlight local Bengali expatriates and how they came together to end violence and racism from the heart of Britain.

The exhibition will be open to all from 11 am to 6 PM, on every day between Tuesday and Saturday. On Thursdays, the exhibition will remain open till 8 PM.