5 Years Since the Rise of ‘Black Lives Matter’ Protests – What’s Next?

Hello! My name is Joshua and I’m a Year 12 pupil at Ysgol Gyfun Gymraeg Plasmawr. Being part of the Coleg Cymraeg’s Sbarduno Scheme has helped me develop a wealth of skills, including writing articles and blogs like this one. Being Black is central to my identity, and my life experiences have shaped – and continue to shape – who I am today. I’m very focused on working towards a fully inclusive community regardless of race, gender, belief or sexuality. Looking back at the 2020 protests, they had a huge impact on our world, on anti-racist work, and on the experiences of Black people. 

I believe the most important thing when talking about the 2020 protests is the narrative around them. How do we as a country reflect on them – in our museums, classrooms, and in conversations with family and friends? More importantly, the narrative influences all aspects of life – e.g., in the media and on social media. When we look at how the protests are remembered, we can see many complex layers. Today, extremist ideologies have platforms to spread their messages and violence. Because of that, I believe it’s important to remember and celebrate the protests and their outcomes while continuing to call for improvements. 

Museums are crucial when looking back at the protests and any part of history. Now, placards are on display at St Fagans Museum to commemorate the protests, ensuring they are remembered and their message is never forgotten. Museums Wales recently celebrated Black voices in Cardiff at the Temple of Peace and Health, and a new exhibition has just launched. 

Since 2020, the Welsh Government has introduced several plans aiming to achieve an anti-racist Wales by 2030 – a target I believe is even more difficult than the ambitious goal of one million Welsh speakers by 2050. We must recognise the difference between not being racist and being anti-racist. To be anti-racist, we must acknowledge the racism around us, its impact, and call it out – a step beyond simply not being racist. The ARWAP (Anti-Racist Wales Action Plan) outlines the path to an anti-racist country with clearly structured steps. 

In education – relevant to many of us – DARPL (Diversity and Anti-Racism Professional Learning) was established to educate, support teachers, and promote anti-racist attitudes. At my school, a group of pupils have come together to form a society called Balch (Proud), which supports pupils and teachers with racism and anti-racism, while similar groups across the country are doing the same. 

With the introduction of the new curriculum, there is now an emphasis on discussing the history of Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic people in schools. This can ensure a healthier educational experience for young people in Wales – better than random, tokenistic lessons during Black History Month. 

The Importance of “Cynefin” – Curriculum for Wales 

On the other hand, in the media, individuals like Sage Todz, Mirain Iwerydd, Dom James, Lloyd Lewis, and especially Lily Beau – who since the protests has released a powerful video discussing her life experiences growing up as a young Black Welsh woman – offer rich representation across many platforms. 

Of course, we must acknowledge the international impact, which is hard to measure. Violence continues, and as I grow up, I’m becoming more aware of the racism I face. As a young mixed-race Black boy, I worry about the first time the police might stop me, about walking in certain areas, about feeling like I belong – remembering all the injustices that have happened. From Stephen Lawrence to George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, Ahmaud Arbery, and many others – those we will never forget, and the protests I hope we will remember for years to come. Beyond that – forever.