OUR STORY

Bristol Legacy Foundation (BLF) was founded in 2019, bringing together city partners, organisations, and individuals committed to addressing Bristol’s historical and ongoing relationship to the Transatlantic Trafficking of Enslaved Afrikans (TTEA).

Originally convened by Bristol City Council and chaired by Professor Olivette Otele, the group operated as the Legacy Steering Group, providing strategic guidance on commemoration and reparations.

In 2022, coordination transitioned to the Black South West Network (BSWN), strengthening the Foundation’s community-rooted approach. In November 2023, BLF was formally established as a Charitable Incorporated Organisation (CIO), marking a shift toward greater independence, accountability, and long-term impact.

Today, BLF continues to evolve as a framework for reparatory justice in Bristol.

Our Journey

  • Established as the Legacy Steering Group, providing strategic direction to Bristol City Council on commemoration and reparations.

  • Bristol City Council passed the Atonement and Reparations Motion (2 March 2021).

    The Project T.R.U.T.H. Report, led by the Black South West Network, set out recommendations following a six-month programme of community consultation with African Caribbean and continental African heritage communities.

  • BLF funding supported The World Reimagined (£50,000).
    The Black South West Network took on administration of BLF and developed four key workstreams:

    • Memorialisation

    • Storyhouse

    • Reparatory Justice

    • Partnerships, Investment & Resources

  • Formally constituted as the Bristol Legacy Foundation and registered as a Charitable Incorporated Organisation (CIO).

  • Officially launched on 15 March at M Shed, marking a public commitment to delivering long-term reparatory work.

    The launch set out plans for:

    • A permanent memorial in Bristol city centre

    • A Storyhouse — a dynamic, evolving space exploring the histories, lives, and futures of African Heritage communities

    A Public Art Commissioner was appointed in December 2023 to lead the development of a permanent commemorative artwork.

  • Our Common Ground launches. Created By Oshii (Oisin Davis Lyon)

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