Tomorrow, September 12, the University of Greenwich will host a special event celebrating the life and legacy of Stephen Lawrence on what would have been his 50th birthday. Lawrence, a promising young man from southeast London, was tragically murdered at the age of 18 in a racially motivated attack in Eltham on April 22, 1993.
Stephen was stabbed while running to catch a bus with his friend Duwayne Brooks by a group of up to six racist attackers. Despite the horrific events that cut his life short, Stephen’s legacy has become a symbol of change, inspiring ongoing efforts toward racial justice and equality.
The event at Greenwich University will also mark the launch of the university’s new Global Majority Alumni Community (GMAC). The GMAC aims to amplify diverse voices within the university and promote meaningful change, which organizers hope will inspire current students.
The celebration will feature a variety of activities, including two new exhibitions in partnership with the Black Heroes Foundation and Culture&, guest speakers, and the premiere of an autobiographical animation by Professor Louise Owusu-Kwarteng titled Our Kind from the North and the South of the M1 River.
Michelle Gayle, Co-Founder of The World Reimagined and an honorary graduate of Greenwich, will be the guest speaker, sharing her insights on the importance of positive change. A DJ set from alumnus Divine Egbue, known as Casper Dot, will add a musical element to the event.
In a significant tribute to Stephen’s ambitions, the university will also discuss the Stephen Lawrence Scholarship, which aims to continue his legacy in the field of architecture, the profession he dreamed of entering.
Mary Davies, Associate Director of Alumni and Fundraising at the University of Greenwich, said: “In remembering Stephen, we’re not just looking back, we’re looking forward. GMAC represents our commitment to fostering an inclusive community where every voice is valued, and every individual can thrive.”
The event underscores the continuing impact of Stephen Lawrence’s life and legacy, more than 30 years after his untimely death.
