Hello from the Caribbean, RIP Jimmy Cliff and African leaders ramp up reparations call
We're away on an overseas assignment, so this week’s 'In Focus' is a concise update with the biggest stories from across our communities. A full newsletter returns next week
Hi everyone,
We’re back with a quick dispatch from the Caribbean, where we’re currently working on an important project about migration experiences.
Given that we’re overseas and knee-deep in filming and interviews, there won’t be a full newsletter this week.
We didn’t want to leave you hanging though, so here’s a round-up of key stories worth your attention.
1. Racism tribunal claims in the Met Police have doubled
Our founder, Nadine White, has produced another national exclusive for The Guardian, which looks at how racism tribunal claims by Metropolitan Police officers and staff surged over the last year. The rise raises serious questions about internal culture and accountability. Read it here
2. Remembering Jimmy Cliff
The legendary Jamaican musician and actor died last week. Sir Jimmy’s work shaped generations and his passing is a huge loss. Jamaica’s government has announced that the cultural icon will receive a state funeral
3. Caribbean Scholars Foundation launches free mentoring scheme
A brilliant opportunity for UK-based year 12–13 Black Caribbean students. They’ll get academic support, career guidance and a mentor who’s genuinely in their corner. Details: www.caribbeanscholarsfoundation.com
4. African leaders intensify calls for accountability for colonial-era crimes
A major push on the global stage to have colonial violence formally recognised, criminalised and addressed through reparations.
5. Barbados installs its second president
A historic moment marked during Independence Day celebrations, signalling the island’s continued steps into republican life
6. MPs urge the government to introduce special visas for Jamaicans affected by Hurricane Melissa
There are growing calls for temporary humanitarian visas, especially for children and vulnerable people left in devastating conditions. Black Current News was the first to spotlight this emerging issue
7. Black men excluded from new prostate screening programme
Despite being the demographic at highest risk, Black men have been left out of the national screening trial. An important story for our communities and one we’ll continue following
8. Right-wing press meltdown over claims David Lammy “removed” the Queen’s portrait from Foreign Office
Several outlets spiralled over the notion of Pan-African flag artworks in the Foreign Office, stoking yet another culture-war debacle
9. Twelve Ethiopian artefacts finally returned after more than a century
Germany has handed back items looted during imperial campaigns. An overdue move within the wider global conversation on restitution
10. UK blocks visa for 8-year-old girl trying to reunite with mum after Hurricane Melissa devastated Jamaica
Lati-Yana’s parents urged the Home Office to act quickly after her grandmother’s home was ruined, leaving the child with nowhere safe to stay
That’s all from us for now.
We’ll be back next week with a full edition, fresh reporting and updates!
Thanks for sticking with Black Current News and for supporting independent, Black-owned journalism.
Got news, a tip, a story idea or thoughts on our coverage? Email admin@blackcurrentnews.co.uk. We read everything and take our communities seriously.