Levi Roots unveils Black History wall at the University of Westminster

On Monday 7 October, colleagues from the University of Westminster were joined by Honorary Doctorate Levi Roots to reveal the new Black History Year wall mural at Regent Campus. The wall is one of two murals around the University’s campuses designed to mark Black History Year (BHY), an innovative initiative that celebrates Black history, stories, lives, politics, creativity and achievement all year round.  Roots’ portrait features on the wall alongside other notable Black Honorary Doctorates from the University, including The Baroness Lawrence of Clarendon and Billy Ocean.

Levi Roots was awarded an Honorary Doctorate from the University of Westminster this year. As a successful entrepreneur with his brand Reggae Reggae Sauce, Roots frequently holds lectures and events at the University that inspire Westminster students to follow their dreams and make them a reality.

Unveiling the wall, Roots said: "The University of Westminster’s mural celebrating Black History is absolutely brilliant and inspirational. It serves to remind its students and visitors of the roles people of colour played in the development of the UK and the positive effects they had on countries and economies around the world. The excellent mural also underscores the significance of the Windrush Generation and sets a precedence on how the University is willing to challenge the current narratives around Windrush and the contribution of black people to world history. More love LR.”

The permanent murals erected across the University demonstrate Westminster’s commitment to acknowledging and continuously celebrating the achievements of Black individuals every day.

Dr Deborah Husbands, Co-Chair of the University's Equality Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) Committee, Co-Chair of the University's Black and Minority Ethnic (BME) Network and BHY Steering Group Lead, commented: “The opening of a permanent wall mural by Levi Roots at the Regent Campus, which we also have at the Cavendish Campus, is a testament to the enduring nature of the University's flagship Black History Year programme. The programme is continuing, through its annual series of events, to recognise and showcase the importance of uncovering histories, connecting experiences and reclaiming our narratives.”

Professor Dibyesh Anand, Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Global Engagement and Employability, said: “An important aspect of our relentless struggle to challenge prejudices and celebrate diversities is to make visible the stories and achievements of those who are under-represented. Through the Black History Year project in general and this event in particular, we are ensuring the visibility of some of our Black colleagues for everyone passing through our buildings. Visibility matters!"

The introduction and development of BHY directly contributes to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 10: Reduced Inequalities. Since 2019, the University of Westminster has used the SDGs holistically to frame strategic decisions to help students and colleagues fulfil their potential and contribute to a more sustainable, equitable and healthier society.  

Find out more about Black History Year at the University of Westminster.