Key Thoughts From The Rally

The Bridge Park Community Rally was a peaceful, well-organised, and truly phenomenal event. Over 100 people gathered in unity to stand for justice, celebrate legacy, and demand the preservation of a landmark that means so much to so many. The atmosphere was filled with love, purpose, and determination.

Attendees enjoyed Port Royal’s Patties, jerk chicken, shaved ice, and refreshments while live music and a talented DJ kept spirits lifted throughout the day. The weather graced us with its beauty, setting the tone for a hopeful and joyous occasion.

We extend heartfelt thanks to everyone who attended, spoke from their heart, and stood in solidarity for this vital cause. Special appreciation to the Bridge Park team for graciously allowing us to use the facility and for their invaluable support on the day.

We also acknowledge the Metropolitan Police for their brief visit and their satisfaction with the rally’s peaceful organisation. Deepest thanks go to former Councillor and former Mayor of Brent, Bertha Joseph, for her powerful written statement, which stirred the hearts of all who heard it.

We are also profoundly grateful to Carl Levy, co-founder of the Brent Black Music Co-operative (BBMC) and a pillar of the UK reggae movement, for his presence and his inspiring words. The BBMC had just celebrated its 40th anniversary the day before the rally, adding further historic significance to the weekend.

A special thank you goes to DJ Blaze from Chalk Hill Community Radio, who served as our exceptional compere for the day. Her energy, professionalism, and deep roots in the community helped create an engaging and unforgettable experience for all.

A special thank you also goes to Sar’i McLean, the lead organiser of the event, whose dedication and tireless efforts made the rally possible. Her leadership brought the vision to life and ensured everything ran smoothly from start to finish.

Now, we invite you to read the voices of the day, the testimonies, speeches, and truths that echoed across Bridge Park and lit the flame of our continued fight for justice and preservation.

Legacy and History

• “Bridge Park was the largest Black-led community-owned development in Europe.”
• “Before this physical structure existed, it was in the minds and vision of our people.”
• “This was not a handout, it was a stand-up.”
• “Bridge Park gave me my first job, it saved my life.”
• “Almost every young person who went through the ITEC training programme found employment.”

Calls for Action and Unity

• “Close the gap, mind the gap, step into it.”
• “We must unite together or there is no hope.”
• “You don’t need permission to stand up for your people.”
• “We must do what Marcus Garvey said, loyalty at all times to our people.”
• “A good man leaves an inheritance to his children’s children.”
• “Don’t let them tell our narrative. Let us write our own story.” 

Resistance Against Injustice

• “Brent Council has done a dirty on us. We refused to sign a 99-year lease because we wanted ownership.”
• “This land has been derelict for 35 years; they waited us out.”
• “Developers are poised to take over our legacy.”
• “If Bridge Park is listed as a heritage site, it cannot be knocked down.”
• “Only 5 per cent affordable housing is promised in the proposed deal. It’s about profit, not people.”
• “They would never delete Wembley Stadium but are ready to delete us.”

Personal Testimonies and Impact

• “This place gave me a job. It helped me raise my son.”
• “When there was no crèche space, they found space for my child.”
• “We started pirate radio in a portacabin in Bridge Park, it was our voice.”
• “I came to Stonebridge to gamble and found purpose.”
• “I couldn’t read or write when I started, but today I’ve written many books.”

Spiritual Foundation

• “Prayer works.”
• “God moves in mysterious ways. He is with us in this battle.”
• “Praise Him, you heavens, we speak Jesus over our community.”
• “We are the chosen few, many are called, few are chosen.”

Historical Moments and Events

• “The building was once Stonebridge Bus Garage.”
• “The Prince’s Trust supported Bridge Park’s foundation.”
• “Famous athletes trained on the football field across the street.”
• “All night reggae music events filled this place.”
• “Black heroes and sheroes like Flip Fraser presented here.”

Messages to Politicians and Institutions

• “Where are our councillors? Are they hiding?”
• “Our MP must stand up and say no to closure.”
• “Brent Council has shown major disrespect to its Black community.”
• “Why are we excluded from the board that’s planning the development?”
• “No offer of water when we met with Brent Council, no hospitality, just erasure.”

Empowerment and Future Vision

• “The fight for me will never stop until I’m dead.”
• “We need intergenerational cooperation; elders and youth must work together.”
• “Even if you don’t understand the politics, step into the space.”
• “You don’t need to be in the church to be called by God.”
• “You must tell your truth, give your testimony.”

Strategic Legal and Campaign Actions

• “Listing application submitted to Historic England.”
• “If listed, Brent must change their plans; it becomes illegal to demolish.”
• “Hundreds of signatures already submitted through the QR code.”
• “Call your MP, share the petition, support for HPCC.”

Cultural Identity and Pan-African Thought

• “We must not be ashamed of our African race.”
• “Marcus Garvey is our role model. Self-reliance is the way forward.”
• “Our story is not in the books; it lives in us.”
• “We must resist mental enslavement and reclaim our dignity.” 

Conclusion

Every word spoken at the rally reaffirmed the deep love, spiritual purpose, and historical pride that underpins the existence of Bridge Park. These thoughts are not just memories, they are blueprints for resistance, restoration and renewal.

Let these truths guide the campaign. Let the people rise with purpose. Let Bridge Park live on.

Sunday, 20 July 2025
2pm – 6pm