In September 2022, the Fi Wi Road interns led the inaugural Black Research Futures Fair at the University of Birmingham. From the name, to the key themes and conference programme, the Fair was designed by them to bring together students, academics, and researchers from across disciplines. See the full 2022 programme.
As part of the fair Black students and researchers from across our networks were invited to contribute their own works in connection to the three central themes of this year’s fair: Inspirations, Aspirations, and Diversions.
‘BLACK RESEARCH FUTURES’
FI WI ROAD FAIR 2022
INSPIRATIONS
Who and what are the people, ideas, spaces which inspire us? Those things which drive us towards our goals? In acknowledging our inspirations we map those who have come before us, and who laid the foundations for the work we do now.
ASPIRATIONS
Our collective and individual aspirations lie at the cohesive middle ground between inspiration and diversion. What are our hopes? What are we looking toward? How will you take your inspirations and shape a new and exciting future?
DIVERSIONS
Our diversions enable us to challenge tradition and expand expectations and norms within academia. What does it mean to be unapologetic and outspoken - to create new spaces rather than wait for a seat at the table?
Silently Loud: Racism in Academia
A powerpoint presentation with 8 slides describing the presence of racism in academia, a case study on resistance and a small introduction to UKRI funding and systemic racism.
BLACK MEN VILLAINS OR MARTYRS: WHAT PSYCHOLOGICAL EFFECTS DO ABSENT FATHERS HAVE ON THEIR BLACK SONS?
Like everyone there is a need for positive role models and seeing those in which look like you and represent you, your culture and background.
1919, the Year History forgot: ‘riot’ and interraciality in a decolonial school curriculum
In a time of politics and pandemics further combined with job competition, 1919 is a year that ought to be part of not only how we think about the First World War, but further taught on the national curriculum.