Black History Season Launch: CLR James Annual Lecture 'Made In Hackney'

This year's Black History Season is proud to launch with the annual CLR James annual lecture, hosted by former senior deputy head teacher, broadcaster, author, editor and Hackney Star winner Juliet Coley BCAe.

The event will be opened by Ngoma Bishop of the CLR James Legacy steering group announcing this year's speaker. The CLR James Legacy steering group has instituted the prestigious lecture annually to the present day.

Juliet Coley was born in Hackney and is second generation Windrush and grew up in the 1970s on the Pembury Estate in Clapton. A time period she loved because it taught her the value of community. She attests to still having close friends and precious memories from that time.

Juliet is passionate about reading for pleasure and the representation of Black characters and stories in Books. She has written 6 and published 37. As a leading figure and publisher for Black children’s books, 30 have been written by Black Children. In 2024 she founded with her family, The Children’s Black Book Fair UK which has been staged in Hackney Central Library for the past two years.

In March 2025 she launched UNSUNG KidsZine, an online magazine written and edited by Black children authors.

Juliet still lives in Hackney and is a youth advocate and is excited to share her story in an evening of discussion and connection.

This exclusive event will be hosted by Paulette Long OBE

Paulette Long OBE has worked within the music industry for 40 years beginning her career in music PR and artist management. Moving on to work for independent music publisher Westbury Music (where she became a director), Paulette worked within all areas of publishing from licensing, artist development and business affairs to royalty accounts and distribution. Also finding time to work for an advertising agency on their music accounts and an independent record label before setting up her own management and publishing company.

From 3pm, browse and buy a selection of exclusive and exciting books written by young authors aged 6 to 16 and published by Hackney Publishing House - Young LIT Stars.

There will also be a selection of Black Books on sale from The Children's Black Book Fair UK's Charity Partner the MAA MAAT Cultural Centre.

This year, the national theme is Standing Firm in Power and Pride. The theme highlights the profound contributions made by Black people – be they leaders, activists, or pioneers who have shaped history, while also looking towards a future of continued empowerment, unity, and growth.

Tickets free, booking essential.

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